How to write SMART goals, with examples
Setting goals is one of the most powerful ways to achieve success. But not all goals are created equal. If your goals are vague or unrealistic, they’re unlikely to lead to meaningful progress. That’s where SMART goals come in.
SMART goals help you create a clear roadmap for success, whether you’re setting personal, professional or fitness goals. In this guide we show you how to write SMART goals with practical examples, and how Lifetick can help you stay on track.
What are SMART goals?
SMART stands for:
- SSpecificClearly define what you want to achieve.
- MMeasurableMake sure there’s a way to track progress.
- AAchievableSet realistic and attainable goals.
- RRelevantAlign your goal with your broader objectives.
- TTime-boundSet a deadline to keep yourself accountable.
Now let’s break down how to write SMART goals effectively.
1. Make your goal specific
A vague goal like “Get fit” doesn’t give you enough direction. Instead, define exactly what you want to accomplish.
“I want to run a 5K race.”
2. Make sure your goal is measurable
Adding measurable criteria helps you track your progress. Instead of just saying “Save money”, define how much you’ll save and how you’ll measure it.
“I will save $2,000 in six months by setting aside $100 a week.”
3. Make it achievable
Your goal should challenge you but still be realistic. If you set an impossible target, you’ll quickly lose motivation. If you’ve never run before, aiming for a marathon in a month is unrealistic. A SMART goal could be:
“I will train three times a week and run a 5K in three months.”
4. Keep it relevant
Your goal should align with your broader aspirations and priorities. If your main objective is career growth, setting a goal to learn a new professional skill might be more relevant than learning to play the guitar.
“I will complete an online course in digital marketing to improve my career prospects within three months.”
5. Set a time-bound deadline
A goal without a deadline can easily be put off. Setting a timeframe creates urgency and keeps you accountable. Instead of “Write a book someday”, say:
“I will write 500 words a day and complete my book draft in six months.”
How Lifetick helps you achieve your SMART goals
Writing SMART goals is only the first step. Tracking and achieving them is where the real challenge lies, and that’s where Lifetick comes in. Adding a goal asks you each SMART question in plain words, and then Lifetick helps you:
- Break goals into steps, with dates and reminders.
- Track progress and see it add up in your reports.
- Stay accountable with reminders and a journal of how it’s going.
- Share goals with your manager, coach or mentor when you want to.
Ready to turn your goals into reality?
Start with one goal. Lifetick is free on iPhone and the web, and five quick questions make it a SMART goal.
