We’ve all set goals that we never quite reached — whether it’s losing weight, saving money, launching a blog, or learning a new skill. The problem isn’t always our motivation — it’s how we set our goals. Enter the SMART goal framework — a proven method used by high achievers, successful businesses, and life coaches around the world.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What SMART goals are
- How to write your own SMART goals
- Tips to stay on track and actually achieve them
What Are SMART Goals?
SMART is an acronym that stands for:
- S – Specific
- M – Measurable
- A – Achievable
- R – Relevant
- T – Time-bound
Using these five principles, you can turn vague wishes into actionable goals with a clear path forward.
A Breakdown of the SMART Criteria
1. Specific
Your goal should be clear and well-defined.
Vague: “I want to be healthier.”
Specific: “I want to walk 30 minutes every day to improve my fitness.”
Ask yourself:
- What exactly do I want to accomplish?
- Why is this goal important?
- Who’s involved?
2. Measurable
You need to track your progress — numbers help!
Unmeasurable: “I want to read more.”
Measurable: “I want to read 12 books this year, one per month.”
Ask yourself:
- How much?
- How many?
- How will I know when I’ve achieved it?
3. Achievable
Set a goal that challenges you, but is still realistic.
Unrealistic: “I will become fluent in Japanese in one month.”
Achievable: “I will complete a beginner’s Japanese course in three months.”
Ask yourself:
- Is this within my reach?
- Do I have the resources and skills?
4. Relevant
Make sure the goal aligns with your life, values, or bigger objectives.
Irrelevant: “I want to learn guitar” (if it doesn’t matter to you).
Relevant: “I want to learn guitar because I’ve always wanted to write my own songs.”
Ask yourself:
- Does this goal support my overall plans?
- Is it worthwhile right now?
5. Time-bound
Set a deadline. Without one, you’re more likely to procrastinate.
No deadline: “I want to start a YouTube channel.”
Time-bound: “I want to publish my first video by August 1.”
Ask yourself:
- When will I achieve this?
- What can I do today, next week, or next month?
SMART Goal Example
Let’s apply the SMART method to a real-life scenario.
Goal: “I want to lose weight.”
SMART Version:
“I will lose 5 kg in 10 weeks by going to the gym 4 times a week and reducing sugar intake.”
- Specific: Lose 5 kg
- Measurable: Track kg lost each week
- Achievable: 0.5 kg per week is realistic
- Relevant: It supports health and self-confidence goals
- Time-bound: Deadline set (10 weeks)
Tips to Actually Achieve Your SMART Goals
1. Write Your Goals Down
Studies show that writing down your goals increases the chance of success by 42%. Keep them where you can see them — your planner, mirror, or phone wallpaper.
2. Break It Down
Turn big goals into smaller weekly or daily tasks. If your goal is to write a book, break it into chapters, then into writing sessions.
3. Track Progress Regularly
Use a habit tracker, journal, or an app like Notion, Todoist, or Google Sheets.
4. Celebrate Milestones
Small rewards can boost motivation. Finished your first week of workouts? Treat yourself to a movie or a relaxing bath.
5. Stay Flexible
Life happens. If you fall off track, don’t quit. Adjust your goal or your timeline and keep going.