A SMART goal is:
- S-Specific: so you know exactly what you are aiming for
- M-Measurable: so you can track your progress and know whether you achieved the goal
- A-Attainable : It is something you can DO– an action you can take– not an outcome. It is a reasonable step forward, not a huge leap.
- R-Relevant: it directly supports your overall goal
- T-Time-bound: it includes elements of time such as number of days of the week, times per month, end of goal
Design your SMART goals to help you achieve your overall goals
Overall goal: I want to get into shape
SMART goal: This week , I will walk the first 15 minutes of my lunch hour on 4/5 days.
- Specific? Yes
- Measurable—Can you tell if you did it? Can you track it? Yes
- Attainable: Is it an action you can take, not an outcome ? Is it a reasonable step forward? Yes.
- Relevant: Yes
- Time-bound: Yes: “this week” “15 min” “4/5 days”
Overall goal: I want to reduce my risk of Alzheimer’s
SMART goal: I will schedule at least one time of socializing with friends each week for this month.
- Specific? Yes
- Measurable: Can you tell if you did it? Can you track it? Yes “at least one time”
- Attainable: Is it something you can do that is a reasonable step forward? Yes.
- Relevant: Yes
- Time-bound: Yes: “at least once per week” “for a month”
Overall goal: I want to make healthy food choices
SMART goal: I will eat one more serving of vegetables per day than I am currently eating 5/7 days this week
- Specific? Yes
- Measurable: Can you tell if you did it? Can you track it? Yes. “one more serving”
- Attainable:Is it something you can do that is a reasonable step forward? Yes.
- Relevant: Yes
- Time-bound: Yes: “5/7 days” “this week”
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