How S.M.A.R.T are you?

I welcomed the gift of a one-day workshop on goal setting. This was a freebie! I thought, why not Zoom in and participate? I’d like to share my experience.

We started with a deep dive into the past year. We discussed Corvid-19, job disruption, WFH, vaccines, masks, etc. Well, you know “our” story. We then focused on what we could do differently and what we had the power to change.

We took a fresh look at key domains in our life (spiritual, emotional, vocational, financial, social, physical, parental, intellectual, and avocational). We examined limiting beliefs that held us back and how we could bravely slay those beliefs with new attitudes and thinking.

You probably know the acronym or roll your eyes at the thought! S.M.A.R.T goals are often discussed in the context of work. Our goals should be specific, measurable, actionable, risky (reasonably), and timely. In this workshop, we explored personal goals (and careers) with new purpose and excitement.

I considered each domain of life with an ambitious goal or two. We broke down our goals into specific tasks over months, weeks, and even days. We learned how to journal and periodically reassess plans.

Fun fact: rewards are critical to your success! When I exercise 5X weekly, I order a movie or visit a beautiful local park. When I meet my monthly goals, I might purchase a pound of Star Bucks coffee or bake. If I meet quarterly goals, I’m looking forward to new clothes!

Taking a S.M.A.R.T look at all dimensions of my life was inspiring and fun. My big goals and dreams became smaller, manageable, and less stressful. One of my avocational interests was to write more this year. Well, look at me now! I’m on track and reevaluating other goals. No more New Year’s resolutions for me! I’m planning to work hard and be smart with my goals!