Starting The New Year, The S.M.A.R.T Way

As the holiday season guides us into the New Year, now is the time to start planning a S.M.A.R.T. start to your 2023. But what is a S.M.A.R.T. goal? And how can it help you achieve your goals over the next year?

Have you ever decided to “get to work” but felt lost in understanding the steps you should take first? The S.M.A.R.T. goal method was invented to simplify tracking your goals. Helping you walk through a step-by-step basis to accomplishing your goals. But what’s so special about the S.M.A.R.T method that other methods lack? Everyone loves setting goals. It allows us to have a sense of purpose, and accomplishing those goals is the only thing better than setting them. S.M.A.R.T. is a tested method that has helped thousands of people achieve their goals and dreams.

The method starts with being Specific. Identify and record what it is that you are trying to accomplish. This would involve anyone or thing included. And the time frame you would like to start and be finished. We can sometimes overthink and identify a goal that may not be needed. So, reviewing to ensure that the goal is an actual goal is the final step of the first part of this method.

Now that you have your specific outline of what you want to achieve, it’s time to Measure your progress. Baby steps are still steps in the right direction, be sure to incorporate all the progress you have made! This part will require you to do homework as everyone measures their success differently.

So, you have a plan, and you know your milestones. But are those dreams Achievable? Only you can honestly answer these questions. Do you have the skills required to achieve your goals? Are they obtainable with your current knowledge and skills? What’s motivating you? Will that motivation maintain? Is the risk of pursuing this goal worth the means?

What about its Relevance? What objective does achieving this goal assist in terms of your overall dreams? Does achieving the goal help you in more ways than one? Does it align with anything else you are wanting or trying to do?

With this method, you’ll be able to achieve all your goals on time. Be realistic in the allotted Time you give yourself to accomplish your goals. Most people will overestimate what they can achieve in a year and underestimate how much they can achieve in ten.

We’ve attached a S.M.A.R.T. goals sheet if you want to check your goals with this method. Follow along with the sheet, or allow this article to guide you.

But with ANI in your corner, your goals and dreams are achievable. ANI sets realistic expectations with our clients and franchisees from day one. We love to see your success and will provide the tools needed to ensure each family member is taken care of. Start the new year the S.M.A.R.T way with a company that cares about you.