Framework for Wellness: SMART Goals
It is probably no surprise that in the pursuit of wellness and wellbeing, a strategic approach can significantly enhance the journey. Intentions are more likely to become actions when focused and deliberate, and a strong plan transforms a wellness journey from a series of random efforts into effective, sustainable changes.
While that leads many of us to think – Great! Then what do I do? – the truth is finding one’s own approach is not always simple or straightforward. Establishing a meaningful strategy does not have a prescription, and the right approach can vary greatly from one person to another. While there are those who connect deeply with goal setting, others prefer crafting experiments for playing and exploration. Some of us are drawn to mapping the journey, and others want to build a foundation on personal values and dreams. Regardless of which framework chosen, constructing a personalized approach increases the likelihood of achieving the wellness we desire. But when also paired with the right framework for the journey – with its own shape and size – we enable a process that is fulfilling on our one-of-a-kind path.
For these reasons, over the next few months we will be exploring different frameworks for growing wellness and wellbeing to build capacity to find our own way. Through a holistic lens encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health, we will look at various methods for approaching wellness and wellbeing so we can shape and mold next steps on our custom-tailored paths.
Ready to get started?
This month let’s look at crafting meaningful SMART goals.
Now, SMART goals are perhaps one of the most common strategies for living out wellness plans, and for good reason. This type of goal is SMART – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — and provides a structured framework to plan, execute, and evaluate wellness goals effectively. There is clarity and direction by being specific, ensuring focus on what we want to achieve, and in being measurable and time-bound, we track progress and are accountable for milestones met along the way. SMART goals help ensure objectives are attainable as well as aligned with our broader priorities; they are a very effective tool for tackling lifestyle changes in a meaningful way!
Let’s look at how to effectively create SMART goals ...
Specific: Define Clear Objectives
A first step in integrating SMART goals is to ensure there are specific objectives connected to our deeper “why.” When constructed this way, a goal outlines exactly what we want to achieve while also being personally meaningful to enhance motivation. Compare, for instance, "I want to increase daily steps from 5,000 to 7,000" to, "I want to walk 15 minutes daily to improve my cardiovascular health so I can play with my kids without getting tired." Can you feel the tangible power of the specificity connected with purpose?! Pairing focused, specific actions with deeper motivations provides a powerful drive to keep us focused on our path.
Measurable: Establish Metrics for Success
Once we establish specific goals, the next step for making them SMART (and meaningful) is using measurements for tracking progress and assessing effectiveness. Metrics, such as duration, frequency, or quantity, are effective tools for objectively evaluating successes and identifying areas for improvement along the way. Through regular monitoring of our goals through measurement, we have a tangible sense of accomplishment reaching each milestone and opportunities to also celebrate small wins – this helps to ensure continual alignment between efforts we make and the ultimate wellness objectives we wish to achieve.
Achievable: Set Realistic and Attainable Goals
With specificity and metrics in place, we then turn towards making our goals attainable. While it's important to aim high, setting achievable SMART goals is critical to ensuring success. Challenging yet still within reach, achievable goals consider life circumstances, resources, and limitations while also being realistic for our own growth. If new to an established sleep routine, for example, a goal of going to bed each night at the same time might be overwhelming to tackle. Instead, we set an achievable goal such as, "go to bed at 10pm once this week," and gradually increase the frequency over time. It is through the achievable part of our SMART goals that we prevent burnout and maintain forward momentum.\
Relevant: Align with Your Values and Priorities
Woven throughout the setting of SMART goals is the thread aligning our values, needs, and priorities, all of which help ensure that our goals stay relevant to who we are. Making goals relevant often includes reflecting on why a particular goal matters and how it fits into broader wellness objectives or dreams. When we craft goals with relevance, we create a deeper connection to the goal and foster greater commitment. This alignment makes the pursuit of our goals more intentional and ensures that our efforts contribute positively to our wellbeing and long-term aspirations.
Time-bound: Set a Clear Timeframe
Closing the loop on setting meaningful SMART goals is done by ensuring that each goal has a defined timeframe for completion. Not only does this create a sense of urgency but helps us prioritize tasks. Setting deadlines encourages consistency in our efforts and reminds us to track progress over time. A time-bound goal ensures we stay committed and provides structure to transform abstract ideas into actionable steps that hold clarity and purpose.
It's no secret that meaningful strategic approaches uniquely tailored to our wellness journeys can significantly boost success. Setting SMART goals, as one strategy, provides a structured approach that ensures clarity, direction, and efficiency, and transforms our often-vague intentions into concrete plans. Setting SMART goals can be powerful for creating a clear roadmap to achieve our unique wellness hopes and dreams. This methodical approach is one through which we can transform our lives, one SMART goal at a time.
Where do meaningful SMART goals fit on your wellness journey?
