How to Create SMART Goals and Stick to Them

Life as a business owner doesn't always come with a manual. Sometimes, it can feel like you have a million things you want to achieve, but you’re not sure where to start. Other times, you may have set goals but phased out of them after some time. The good thing is that you're not alone! We will teach you how to use SMART goals and, more importantly, how to stick to them.

What are SMART Goals?

"SMART" is an acronym that helps us make our goals clear and achievable. Each letter stands for something important:

• Specific: Be clear about what you want to achieve.

• Measurable: How will you know when you've reached your goal?

• Achievable: Is your goal realistic?

• Relevant: Does your goal matter to you?

• Time: When do you want to achieve your goal?

  
  

For example, stating an average goal is saying, "I want to get in shape." A SMART goal would be, "I will lose 5 pounds by exercising 3 times a week for 30 minutes each time for a month." See the difference?

Getting Started: Your Goal Setting Sheet

One of the best ways to start is by using a goal-setting sheet. This helps you write down your goals and break them down into smaller steps. You can find many free templates online or even just use a notebook.

To start, think about what you want to achieve in different areas of your life. Consider aspects like your career, health, or personal development. If you're thinking about goal setting for work, consider goals for work performance. Are you aiming to scale your business? Do you want to improve your skills? Remember, writing it down makes it real.

Making Your Goals Stick: Tips and Tricks

Okay, so you've got your SMART goals. Now, how do you actually follow through? Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

• Break it Down: Big goals can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable tasks surrounding specific aspects in your life. This makes them less intimidating.

• Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your progress. This could be a daily checklist, a journal, or even a simple app. Seeing how far you've come can be a huge motivator.

• Find an Accountability Partner: Tell someone about your goals. This could be a friend, family member, or coworker. Having someone to check in with can help you stay committed.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Don't wait until you reach your final goal to celebrate. Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way. This keeps you motivated.

• Visualize Your Success: Goal Setting Vision Board

  Bonus tip: Creating a goal-setting vision board can be a powerful tool. It's a visual representation of your goals. Collect pictures, quotes, and anything else that inspires you. Seeing your goals visually can help keep them top of your mind.

  
  

Keeping it Relevant: Your "Why"

Creating and sticking to SMART goals isn't always easy, but it's definitely worth it. By being specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, you can turn your dreams into reality. Remember, your goals need to be relevant to you. Ask yourself why this goal is important. Understanding your "why" will help you stay motivated when things get tough. By using tools like a goal setting sheet and a goal setting vision board, you can keep yourself on track.