2/7/2013 - By Ella Kimbrel

Although January is already behind us, it’s not too late to set your 2013 goals.  One of the best ways to measure the success of your goals is by setting them up using the SMART model.  Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely.  Let’s take a brief look at each letter.

• S – Specific –  this is the what, why and how of your goal. Make sure your goal is very specific, clear and concise.   
• M – Measureable – keep in mind that if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.  So Measurable goals should have concrete criteria for measuring progress.  Think of it this way, “I want to be a good reader” or “I want to read 3 books by June 30^th”. 
• A – Attainable – if your goals are too far out of reach, you probably won’t commit to really completing them.  For example, losing 20 lbs in one week is unattainable, BUT losing 1 lb a week for 20 weeks is definitely achievable and will help you stay the course.
• R  –  Realistic –  means your goal is actually doable. A realistic project will probably push your skills and knowledge but it should break you in the process.  Consider this:  If you’re trying to cut down on the number of sodas you drink each day, start with eliminating one. When you’ve met that goal, go for two.  Quitting the soda habit can be difficult where a gradual goal may be more realistic for you.
• T – Timely –  If you don’t set a time commitment, the goal ends up being vague and without the time limit, there’s no urgency. 

Source:  http://www.goal-setting-guide.com/goal-setting-tutorials/smart-goal-setting