How to Write SMART Goals? Realistic Examples & Objectives

The holiday season — where we awkwardly wear Santa sweaters, wrestle with shopping carts, and engage in the peculiar tradition of setting New Year’s Resolutions we never keep. We kick off the year with visions of grandeur: finally booking that dream vacation, landing that promotion, or shedding those extra pounds. But before long, the January blues hit, the gym is a distant memory, and the leftover cookies have won the battle.

Here’s the truth: dreams don’t come true on their own. Vague plans make cutting corners or giving up easier when times get tough. Are you really ready to achieve those milestones? SMART goals leave little room to “cheat.” This method keeps you accountable, focused, and motivated to see your plans through.

Ready to hit those targets? This guide will cover: 

• A breakdown of the SMART acronym with a goal-setting template. 
• How to create SMART goals for work and home. 
• Professional and personal SMART goals examples. 

What Is a SMART Goal?

A SMART goal is a structured way to set and achieve your objectives. This tried-and-tested method helps you form clear, actionable, and easy-to-track targets. With SMART goals, the aim is to avoid feeling overwhelmed or losing focus while staying on track. 

So, where did SMART come from? It was first introduced by George T. Doran in 1981 to help managers align their objectives with business needs. But even in the corporate world, goals are personal and adaptable — even Doran admitted that you can be flexible with the method. 

“It should also be understood that the suggested acronym doesn’t mean that every objective written will [meet] all five criteria.” 

Here’s an overview of the SMART acronym:

S: Specific 

Stay clear and detailed about what you want to achieve by avoiding vague goals. Instead of saying, “I want to grow professionally,” aim for something like, “I want to complete a project management certification.”

M: Measurable

Track your progress with measurable actions, online tools, or by reflecting on your own advancements. For example, is your goal is to lose weight? Clarify how much, like “I want to lose 2kg a month”. 

A: Achievable

Ensure your goal is realistic based on your resources, skills, and timeframe. Stretch yourself, but don’t aim for something unattainable, like doubling your company’s revenue in one month.

R: Relevant

Align your goal with broader objectives or values. Ask yourself: Why is this important to me or my role? For example, learning a new software program is relevant if it boosts your job performance.

T: Time-Bound

Set a clear deadline or regular milestones — a goal without a timeframe can lose momentum. Instead of saying, “I’ll improve my public speaking,” specify, “I’ll complete a public speaking course by June 30th.”

Want to create your own targets? Use this SMART goal template for inspiration: 

Why Are SMART Goals Important?

SMART goals give you an organized method to reach targets. Instead of loose plans or wishful thinking, the SMART framework focuses your efforts, helping you turn ambitions into clear, actionable steps. 

Here are three reasons how SMART goals can help you reach your targets: 

• Clarity: defining SMART parameters ensures you know exactly what you’re working toward and how long it should take. This cuts out the guesswork and lets you track your progress. 
• Motivation: you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed when you break down your objectives into realistic and achievable parts. Having a bad day? Your goals can remind you of the bigger picture. It’s also easier to stay committed when you see measurable success. 
• Resource management: in the workplace, managing time, budgets, and energy can be a lot. SMART goals help you prioritize tasks, reduce time-wasting, and increase productivity. For managers, they’re a great tool to set clear expectations and improve performance across a team.

But no method is perfect — especially for something so personal as creating goals. Critics argue SMART goals might restrict adaptability or don’t work well for long-term objectives because of their rigid nature. While I agree they work particularly well for short- to mid-term planning, you can still use them as stepping stones toward broader ambitions. 

How to Write a SMART Goal?

Short answer:

When writing your SMART goals, start by being specific about what you want to achieve and why it matters. Define the measurable criteria for success, like numbers or milestones, to track progress. Make sure it’s achievable by considering your resources, time, and skills. Keep it relevant by aligning the goal with your wider personal or professional objectives. And make it time-bound by setting a clear deadline for accountability. 

Below, I’ll illustrate each SMART criterion with real-life examples to help you plan your own targets. 

Specific: Have a clear goal

Creating a clear and specific goal eliminates confusion and stops you from taking sneaky detours. We’re all guilty of saying we’ll eat healthy, then proclaiming Saturday as a “cheat day” the moment we crave a cheeseburger (by the way, it’s supposed to be a cheat meal, not a cheat day). Don’t let your future self do that. A vague goal can leave you without a clear direction. 

It’s easier to stay committed when you tie your goal to a clear why. And if you’re working in a team, make sure everyone is on the same page. A handy trick is to share your goal and ask others to explain it in their own words. If their interpretations are all over the place, it’s a sign it needs more precision. 

Check out these examples of specific goals:

• Improve my project management skills: Complete a recognized certification program, such as PMP, within six months by studying for two hours daily and taking a practice test every weekend.
• Declutter my home: Organize one room per weekend, starting with the kitchen, to create a functional and tidy space by the end of the month.
• Increase our department’s monthly sales: Boost sales by 15% through a new referral program and weekly sales training sessions, with measurable results by March 31.

Measurable: Track your progress

As Peter Drucker said, only what gets measured, gets managed. Numbers, percentages, and hours make your goal more tangible. Is your goal to improve customer satisfaction? Don’t just count the awkward smiles at checkout. A more measurable target is increasing customer satisfaction scores by 10% within six months. 

And don’t tackle too much all at once. For long projects, break them into smaller, more manageable chunks. Does your project span several months? Set weekly or monthly milestones to keep yourself on track. This way, you’re not just tracking the result — you’re keeping a close eye on the smaller victories that add up to the bigger picture.

Here’s how to set measurable goals:

• Improve our team’s project completion rate: Increase the project completion rate from 70% to 90% within six months. I’ll achieve this with a new project management tool and weekly progress meetings.
• Save money: Save $5,000 over the next 10 months by setting aside $500 per month and tracking progress using a budgeting app.
• Boost website engagement: Improve website traffic by 20% in the next quarter by posting weekly blog articles and tracking metrics using Google Analytics.

Achievable: Stay realistic 

A goal that’s too easy won’t help you grow, but one that’s unrealistic can leave you feeling frustrated and burnt out. Finding an achievable goal is about striking the right balance to stay motivated and on track. Don’t be afraid to stretch yourself a little — there’s nothing like that feeling of success after climbing that mountain. 

Test the realism of your goal by asking: If I follow the steps I’ve planned, is this truly within reach? If the answer is no, it’s time to tweak the timeline, gather more resources, or scale down the goal. I’m not saying lower your ambitions, just focus on making steady progress without unnecessary stress. 

Take a look at these examples of achievable goals: 

• Improve my team’s productivity: Introduce new training techniques within the next three months and get feedback from all team members during bi-weekly sessions. 
• Run half a marathon: Build up to 13.1 miles in six months by following a progressive training plan that increases my distance by one mile each week.
• Earn a promotion: Complete three leadership courses over six months to strengthen my management skills and prove my readiness for a senior role. 

Relevant: Consider the context 

We’re always told to “look at the bigger picture,” but why? Our decisions often get swayed by temporary emotions or situations. Zooming out helps you see how your goals fit into the long-term plan. Relevance is about connecting your objectives to something bigger that gives them real purpose.

How does your goal fit into your bigger plan? Does it align with your team’s or company’s priorities? If your business has set clear objectives, your goal should directly support those initiatives. It’s easy to get excited about a new idea, but if it doesn’t support the bigger mission, it might not be worth pursuing — at least not right now.

Here are some relevant goal examples: 

• Boost customer retention: Reduce customer churn by 10% within the next quarter by introducing a new feedback system. This directly supports the company’s goal of increasing revenue.
• Improve my health: Start a meal-prepping routine to eat healthier and maintain energy to support my overall goal of achieving work-life balance.
• Increase team collaboration: Roll out a new team communication platform by the end of next month to improve remote work efficiency, aligning with the company’s shift toward flexible work arrangements.

One caveat, though: remember when I said that not all of your goals need to align with each of the SMART criteria? Perhaps the “R” one is the best example. Some goals are just fun side quests that don’t fit into any of the “bigger” pictures — and that’s totally fine!

Time-bound: Set a deadline 

Deadlines may have caused late nights and an addiction to Red Bull at college, but let’s face it — they got the job done. While I’m not suggesting you recreate that chaos, setting a clear timeline for your goals creates focus and adds a sense of urgency to keep you moving.

Start by setting a firm deadline for your goal. When do you want to complete it and is the timeline realistic? Being ambitious is great, but underestimating the time or resources can lead to frustration. Break long-term goals into smaller milestones to make the bigger picture less overwhelming.

Check out these time-sensitive examples:

• Improve team reporting systems: By the end of the next quarter (three months), I aim to introduce a new reporting software and train all team members, ensuring weekly status updates. 
• Learn a new language: Achieve conversational proficiency in Spanish within six months by practicing for 30 minutes daily and completing one online course module every two weeks.
• Complete a marketing campaign: Launch a new campaign within six weeks by creating the strategy in two weeks, finalizing content within the next three weeks, and testing it during the last week.

Professional SMART Goals Examples 

It’s that time of year when your manager asks for your goals — and no, “less gossip at the water cooler” doesn’t count. Or maybe you’re the boss, trying to motivate your team to set meaningful, actionable objectives. Either way, SMART goals offer a simple framework to set clear, achievable targets that work for you and the company.

Let’s explore some popular professional goals and reach them with the SMART method. 

Cut down on work stress

Many of us work eight hours a day, five days a week. If you’re feeling anxious, that can easily spill over into your personal life. Cutting down on stress can ease that Sunday night dread and improve your overall well-being — you might even enjoy going to work on a Monday morning. 

Here’s how to use the SMART framework to tackle tension: 

• Specific: Identify the causes of your work stress. Too many deadlines? Endless meetings? Unclear priorities? Be particular about your goal, such as, “Reduce stress by delegating tasks and scheduling daily breaks to avoid burnout.”
• Measurable: Decide how you’ll track your progress. For example, “Meditate for ten minutes, four days a week” or “Limit overtime to two days per week.” Keeping a journal or rating your stress level weekly can help monitor improvements.
• Achievable: Focus on what’s realistic within your workload. If your job demands a lot, instead of aiming to “eliminate all stress,” work towards “reducing stress by managing one trigger at once.” Maybe you can take one hour daily for uninterrupted work.
• Relevant: How does this goal align with your long-term well-being? Reducing work stress can improve your focus, relationships, and energy levels. Connecting the goal to how much better helps motivate you to stick with it.
• Time-bound: Set a deadline for your goodbye-stress plan and break it down further with milestones, like “By the end of month one, I’ll have daily breaks scheduled and a delegated task system in place.”

Is the stress getting too much? Find out more: When Is It Time to Quit My Job?

Land a promotion or pay rise

You’ve had your eye on that promotion for a while, but news flash: it’s not just going to land on your lap. You need to get noticed. What’s the best way to do that? Upskill, take on more responsibilities, and show you have the leadership skills to drive the company forward.

Let’s break it down using SMART goals:

• Specific: Define what will make you stand out. Is it increasing sales by 15%? Completing a successful project? Take classes, seek feedback from managers, or shadow colleagues to understand company-wide objectives better.
• Measurable: Include metrics like sales figures, social media engagement, or workflow improvements. You can measure your progress by logging hours spent on courses or certifications.
• Achievable: Do you have the tools and resources to achieve this? If not, what can you access? Use online courses, mentorship opportunities, or company-provided resources to build relevant skills.
  
  
• Relevant: Align your efforts with company goals. Think about what your manager values or what the company needs right now. Focus on how your steps directly support your career growth and the company’s success.
  
  
• Time-bound: Give yourself a timeline to hit milestones. For example, “Get certified in digital marketing within three months and apply the strategies learned in a campaign by the next quarter.” Breaking it into smaller steps makes progress easier to manage.

Learn a new skill

Learning an in-demand skill is a great way to invest in yourself and level up professionally. But to make it effective, you’ve got to plan it out. Cramming new knowledge into your brain takes time and can be a rocky road, so having a direction and end goal can help you stay on the right path.

Here’s how you can break it down:

• Specific: Don’t just say, “I want to learn something new.” Pinpoint exactly what you want to master and why. For example, “I want to learn advanced Excel to improve my data analysis skills.” Look at your strengths and gaps, and choose a skill that matches your role or career goals.
• Measurable: Set clear benchmarks. You could say, “Complete an Excel course and apply what I’ve learned by creating reports for my team within two months.” Tracking your progress will reveal the small wins and how far you’ve come.
• Achievable: Do you have the tools and resources to succeed? Can your company provide training, or are there affordable courses online? Break the learning process into steps — like dedicating 30 minutes daily to practice or taking one course at a time.
• Relevant: Make sure the skill ties into your current role or career aspirations. For example, if you’re aiming for a project management role, learning tools like Asana or Agile methodologies would make more sense than something unrelated.
• Time-bound: Including smaller milestones along the way, like completing individual modules, will help you stay on track. For example, “Finish the Excel course in six weeks and create my first report by the end of the quarter.” 

Create a better work-life balance 

Creating a better work-life balance isn’t about slacking off — it’s about prioritizing your health, happiness, and how productive you are at work. But the trick is to figure out what balance means for you and build it step by step. 

Let’s break it down with SMART goals:

• Specific: Be clear about the changes you’ll focus on, whether scheduling personal time, prioritizing family, or saying “no” to extra work. For example, “Set boundaries by logging off work at 6 p.m. daily and spending one hour daily on self-care.”
• Measurable: Track time spent working, hours of sleep, exercising, or even how often you feel stressed or energized during the day. For example, “Limit work to 45 hours per week and spend at least two hours each weekend doing something I love.”
• Achievable: What can you do within your work schedule without over-promising? Commit to one new boundary at a time, like taking lunch breaks away from your desk or delegating non-essential tasks to reduce your workload.
• Relevant: Connect this goal to what matters most to you. Does balancing your life improve your health or strengthen relationships? For example, “Having more time for exercise and family means I’ll feel more energized, which helps me focus better at work.”
• Time-bound: Focus on the small wins, like doing one sport each week or taking up a new hobby. For example, “Start with one boundary this week, and reassess my work-life balance after 30 days to see what’s working.” 

Here’s how Paul Gibbons, a content designer from the UK, found a better work-life balance:

I was worried about my balance of work and social life. I wanted to find new ways to be social and meet people outside of work, which was also healthy, sustainable, and fun. Using social media, I helped set up a football club for people looking for fitness and friendship. 

I set a goal to get our first game running in two weeks. I’m proud to say that the club now has over 100 members, plays every week, and includes people of all abilities, ages, and genders. On a personal level, it’s helped me make new friends, and I’m also 22 pounds down!

Find your dream job 

I’ve been there — applying for endless jobs can feel like going down the rabbit hole while slowly losing your sanity (just me?). Having a realistic plan reminds you that those rejections are simply an inevitable part of the process, rather than a knockback to square one. 

Here’s how to make it work:

• Specific: Get clear on what “dream job” means for you. What field, role, or company excites you? Write down actionable steps like “Update my resume,” “Reach out to three contacts in my network,” or “Research five companies aligned with my goals.”
  
  
• Measurable: Keeping track of numbers will show you’re taking steps in the right direction, even with the setbacks. For example, aim to apply for six jobs a week or attend two networking events this month. 
• Achievable: Do you have the qualifications for the jobs you want? If not, consider taking a course or gaining experience to close the gap. Tap into networking opportunities on LinkedIn or attend local career fairs to boost your chances.
• Relevant: Stay true to your career vision to avoid distractions. Will this job help you grow in your field or open doors to future opportunities? For example, if creativity and flexibility are important to you, focus on roles or companies that offer those.
  
  
• Time-bound: Deadlines create urgency, something often needed for securing a job. But instead of saying, “Get my dream job in six months,” break into smaller targets, such as “apply for 20 jobs by the end of the month,” to keep your eyes on the prize. 

Start your job hunt strong by perfecting your application. Try our free AI Resume Builder to generate a tailored resume with all the right details to impress recruiters. 

Personal SMART Goals Examples

SMART goals aren’t just for the office. How often have you vowed to save money, only to splurge the second payday hits? Or promised yourself you’d work out more, but that cozy couch calls your name after a long day?

And I don’t blame you. Life throws distractions, challenges, and tempting treats our way, making it tough to progress. But with SMART goals, you can tap into what truly motivates you, track your progress, and adjust as needed to hit those targets.

Let’s dive into how you can reach your personal goals using the SMART method. 

Save money, spend less, earn more

After the mammoth grocery bills, travel expenses, and the dollars pumped into creating “Christmas cheer” — money-saving is often the priority going into the new year. In fact, a 2024 YouGov poll found it was the top New Year’s resolution amongst Americans. 

But let’s face it — saving money isn’t just about skipping lattes or cutting subscriptions. It isn’t easy downgrading your lifestyle or bailing on financial commitments, so many experts agree the real game-changer is increasing your income. 

Here’s how you can break it down:

• Specific: Get clear on what you're saving for and why. Is it a well-deserved vacation, or overall stability? Saying “Save $5,000 in a year for an emergency fund” is much clearer than “I want to save money.” You can also set targets for boosting your earnings, like “Dedicate 1 hour a week to online courses and earn a pay rise before the year ends.”
• Measurable: If you’re saving $5,000, calculate how much that means per month or week (e.g., $100 per week). Plan actionable steps like “Save $50 by cutting takeout”, “Freelance for $200 monthly,” or “Rent out a room once a month for extra income.”
• Achievable: Be realistic about what you can save based on your income and expenses. Can you cut non-essential spending without feeling deprived? If $5,000 in a year feels tight, think of ways to give yourself more breathing room. For example, look into raises, job-hopping, or selling unused items for more income. 
• Relevant: Align your goal with bigger priorities. Whether it’s peace of mind, financial independence, or achieving a personal milestone, knowing your “why” will keep you motivated. You can also check that your savings and earnings plan fits within your overall budget.
• Time-bound: Give your goal a deadline to keep yourself from that tempting shopping spree. For example, “I’ll save $5,000 in 12 months” gives you a clear finish line. You can also add smaller milestones, like “Earn an extra $100 through dog-walking every month.” Use deadlines to drive focus and explore higher-paying opportunities to accelerate your progress.

Get fit and healthy 

Ah, the age-old fitness battle. It can feel endless — especially when you “bump into” that chocolate aisle after a bad day at work. Improving your overall health isn’t about depriving yourself or going full throttle all at once. Creating a realistic plan with expected obstacles is more sustainable in the long run. 

Here’s how to make it happen:

• Specific: Don’t just say, “I want to get healthy.” Get clear about how you’ll do it. Are you cutting out fast food? Walking 10,000 steps a day? Trying a new sport? Start by listing your current habits and identifying what needs to change. 
• Measurable: Fitness apps can help monitor steps, calories burned, or hours slept. Progress is easier to celebrate when you see it in real numbers. Maybe it’s dropping 20lbs in three months or drinking 64 ounces of water daily. Just remember, many people new to working out actually put on some weight through increased muscle mass, so don’t solely rely on the number on the weighing scales during your fitness journey. 
• Achievable: Set a goal that feels challenging but doable. If you’re not exercising yet, don’t commit to running five miles tomorrow. Instead, aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking three times a week. Remember, it’s about sustainable changes.
• Relevant: Tie your goal to a personal reason that matters to you. Do you want to feel more energetic to play with your kids? Fit into your favorite jeans again? When your “why” feels meaningful, it’s easier to stick with it during tough days.
• Time-bound: Having checkpoints along the way keeps you motivated and lets you adjust when life takes a turn. For example, “I’ll aim to run 5km in three months, then another 5km in the following three months.” 

I spoke to Bobby Ring, an AdOps manager, about his journey to lose weight: 

My initial goal was to reach 176 pounds, but my attitude has changed over the process. When I first signed up for gym classes, I dreaded going. But they held me accountable and would charge us if we canceled. 

I was practically forced to make exercise part of my daily routine, but now I’m happy and motivated to workout. I measure my progress through the number of classes I attend and the calories burnt on my Apple Watch. But the real measure of success is how much exercise has elevated my mood and given me the mental strength I need for the day. 

Spend more time with loved ones

Spending more time with loved ones is one of those unspoken goals that often gets sidelined because of busy schedules. I live in a different country from my family and still struggle to remember to call even once a month. But a short walk, a quick visit, or even a Zoom call can mean a lot — and doesn’t cost a cent.

Here’s how to make this goal a reality:

• Specific: Why is this important to you? Do you want weekly dinners with your family? Monthly meetups with friends? For example, “I’ll spend an hour each night tech-free with my kids” or “I’ll call my parents every Sunday.” 
• Measurable: It feels odd measuring time with loved ones, but it helps keep you accountable. Decide on a specific number of interactions — like two family meals a week, two monthly outings with friends, or a 20-minute phone call each week. 
• Achievable: You don’t need extravagant plans; focus on small, manageable ways to connect. A game night, coffee date, or walk in the park works just as well as a big event. Ask yourself: “What fits into my current routine?” and make it happen. 
• Relevant: Do you want stronger bonds, more laughter, or support for your loved ones? Consider what matters most and how these moments align with your overall happiness and personal values.
• Time-bound: While this is more of a lifestyle change, setting a timeframe helps kick things off. For example, “By the end of this month, I’ll have spent quality time with my family at least twice.” These deadlines create momentum and keep you from pushing it to “someday.”

Set more time for self-care 

It’s easy to put off “me-time” in favor of something more “practical” like running errands or working extra hours. But making time for self-care isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity for maintaining your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Here’s how to make it happen:

• Specific: Don’t just say you’ll “relax more” — get specific. Maybe you can dedicate 20 minutes every evening to meditation, schedule a weekly bath ritual, or commit to journaling. Consider what self-care is for you and how to weave it into your routine.
• Measurable: Use a tracker app or a simple notebook to record your activities and how they make you feel. You could measure yoga sessions per week, how many books you’ve read in a month, or even mood improvements through an app. 
• Achievable: Instead of aiming for a spa day every week, try affordable (or free!) options like meditating, walking, or setting aside time to listen to your favorite podcast. Focus on manageable actions so you don’t feel discouraged.
• Relevant: Align your self-care goals with what you genuinely need. Are you looking to reduce stress, improve your health, or feel more energized? Tailor your goals to focus on areas that will bring the most impact. 
• Time-bound: While self-care is a lifelong effort, setting smaller deadlines can help. For example, aim to meditate for 15 minutes a day for one month or commit to walking for 20 minutes a day for the next three weeks. 

I spoke to Phoebe McCrorie, a post-doctoral research fellow, about how she achieved more downtime: 

My goal was to devote more time to myself by reading more this year. I downloaded an app called Goodreads and set a target of 12 books for the year. Creating a target pushed me to read more, and I really got into it, increasing my target as the year went on. I’m ending the year on 36 books while feeling much more switched off and relaxed. 

Have less screen time 

Ever spent two hours watching cat videos — and then complained about not having enough time for everything? It’s no secret that our phones have become almost an extension of our bodies. And on top of that, it’s estimated that US adults spend about three hours watching TV a day. Cutting your screen time leaves room to be more productive, active, and social. 

Here’s how to use SMART to put an end to doom-scrolling: 

• Specific: Are you aiming to cut one hour of social media each day? Maybe it’s about limiting gaming to weekends or keeping your evenings screen-free. Consider where you want to reduce and by how much.
• Measurable: Use tools like your phone’s Screen Time feature or apps like Digital Wellbeing to track your average screen use. Set a measurable goal, like reducing screen time by 30 minutes daily or limiting Instagram use to 1 hour a week. 
• Achievable: Cutting down is tricky without alternatives. Replace screen time with something enjoyable — read a book, pick up a hobby, or go for a walk. Start small: try putting your phone in another room during meals or using app blockers to curb distractions.
• Relevant: Do you want to spend more time being present with loved ones? Maybe you’re seeking better focus or want to feel less attached to your phone. Keeping this purpose front and center will help you stick with your goal.
• Time-bound: Set a timeline for hitting milestones. For example, cut screen time by 15 minutes each day over the next week, then 30 minutes by next month. Having a deadline gives you something to work towards. 

Goal-Setting Tools and Resources

There’s nothing wrong with getting a little extra nudge to push you towards your goals. There are plenty of tools designed to organize your objectives, monitor your progress, and send you passive-aggressive reminders when you fall behind. 

Check out these popular platforms and apps to help you stay on top of your SMART goals.

• ClickUp: Organize and track goals with timelines, measurable targets, and automated progress tracking. Manage OKRs, weekly scorecards, and team tasks using customizable folders.
• Strides: Use this iOS app (Android coming soon) to create versatile trackers for goals and habits. Strides features templates, progress bars, streak tracking, and charts.
• Coach.me: Combine habit tracking, coaching, and community support. You can set goals, check in daily, and get reminders for consistent progress. 
• Habitica: Gamify your goals with in-game rewards, punishments, and a supportive social network. Track habits, tasks, and daily goals to “level up” in life.
• Todoist: Simplify task management with custom filters, calendar views, and recurring tasks. Todoist is great for personal organization and team collaboration.

Summary 

• Define exactly what you want to achieve and why it’s important. Clarity avoids any detours and keeps you focused.
• Numbers and measurable progress help make goals tangible. Set clear criteria to track your journey and know when you’ve succeeded. 
• Ensure your goal is achievable with your resources, time, and current commitments. You’re more likely to succeed by balancing ambition with practicality.
• Align your goals with your broader personal or professional objectives to ensure they’re meaningful and valuable.
• Establish a timeframe to create urgency and accountability, It could be days, months, or years — just make sure it’s realistic. 
• Large goals can feel overwhelming, so break them into smaller, manageable actions for steady progress.
• Celebrate milestones and acknowledge small wins along the way to keep yourself motivated and positive.
• Stay accountable by sharing your goals with someone you trust or use tools to track your progress regularly.
• Life happens. Stay flexible and be ready to adjust your goals without losing sight of the overall aim.

FAQ

What does SMART goal stand for?

SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Each element ensures your goals are clear, actionable, and trackable. 

Being specific means your goal is well-defined and focused. Measurable goals let you track progress and know when you’ve succeeded. Achievable ensures the goal is realistic based on your current resources and skills. Relevance aligns your goal with broader priorities, and time-bound sets a deadline to create a sense of urgency.

How to create SMART goals?

Creating SMART goals starts with understanding what you want to achieve, and why it matters. Begin by making your goal specific — clearly define what success looks like. Next, ensure the goal is measurable by attaching numbers or milestones. This might mean tracking how many miles you run each week or how much weight you lift at the gym.

Make your goal achievable by assessing your current skills, resources, and limitations. A good goal should challenge you, but still be realistic. Confirm the goal is relevant and aligned with your life priorities. Finally, make your goal time-bound by setting a deadline to create urgency and help you stay focused. 

What are examples of SMART objectives?

SMART objectives help clarify what success looks like by breaking goals into actionable steps. They can apply to personal or professional targets, ensuring you stay on track and motivated. 

Here are some SMART examples to inspire you:

• Specific: “I will improve my public speaking skills by joining a Toastmasters group and practicing once a week.”
• Measurable: “I’ll read 12 books this year, averaging one book per month.”
• Achievable: “I’ll increase my daily water intake to 8 cups by keeping a reusable water bottle with me.”
• Relevant: “I’ll complete an online certification in marketing to enhance my career prospects in digital advertising.”
• Time-bound: “I’ll run a 5K within three months by following a weekly training schedule.”

What's the best way to get back on track if I fail to reach my goal?

First, don’t beat yourself up — it happens to everyone. Take a step back and evaluate what went wrong. Were the goals too ambitious, or did unexpected obstacles pop up? Adjust your plan and break it into smaller, manageable steps. Use the mistakes and what you’ve learned to refine your approach, focus on the positives, and set realistic timelines. Remember, failing is part of the process — it’s how you bounce back that counts.

What if I feel better at embracing chaos than setting frameworks for my goals?

Embracing a little chaos is fine — many thrive in unpredictability. But ask yourself: how has this been working for you so far? If things aren’t going as planned, or you’re not reaching your full potential, it’s time for a change. 

But you don’t need to do a complete 180° and opt for total order. Use SMART goals as a loose guide rather than a strict framework. Focus on the aspects that help, like defining clear priorities or setting deadlines, but allow room for flexibility and spontaneity. Think of it as creating a structure that works with your natural flow, not against it.

What are SMARTER goals?

SMARTER goals add Evaluate and Reassess to the SMART framework.

• Evaluate: Regularly review your progress to ensure you’re on the right path. 
• Reassess: Adjust your goals based on feedback, changing circumstances, or lessons learned. This makes the process flexible and dynamic, improving your chances of long-term success.

Why is it important that goals be measurable?

Measurable goals help track progress and keep you accountable. Without measurable criteria, it’s hard to know if you’re succeeding or need to adjust. They motivate by giving you concrete evidence of improvement, which builds confidence and keeps you focused on the end result.