Whether you are working toward a lifelong dream or completing a small task for the week, SMART goals are an important tool for helping you achieve the life you desire. Although creating SMART goals can take time, they help build consistency and accountability, which are key components of personal growth.
SMART goals can be applied to any type of goal, as long as the goal is achievable within a time-sensitive window. If a goal feels too out of reach at the moment or the timeline is too long to accurately measure, don’t panic. Break the larger goal into smaller SMART goals to gradually build toward your ultimate objective. The SMART goal method helps create detailed, focused, and attainable goals that increase the likelihood of completion. Achieving goals not only improves quality of life and personal growth but also builds confidence, motivation, and resilience.
Let’s Break it Down
SMART is an acronym representing each component of the goal: S for specific, M for measurable, A for achievable, R for relevant, and T for time-bound. Each of these components helps create goals that are both achievable and challenging, while providing clear criteria for success.
S – Specific
The “S” focuses on creating specific goals rather than using vague terms such as reduce, more, increase, or improve. The goal should be singular, meaning it has only one clear objective. Using the six W’s, what, where, which, why, when, and who, helps dive deeper into every aspect of the goal. By focusing on the behavior behind the goal, it remains clear and achievable. While some of the six W’s overlap with other components of SMART goal building, they provide a strong foundation to build upon.
The Six W’s:
- What is the goal in detail?
- Why do you want to achieve this goal?
- Who is needed to achieve the goal?
- Which obstacles may interfere with goal completion?
- Where do you need to go to achieve the goal?
- When should the goal be completed?
M – Measurable
The goal must include a measurable component that clearly indicates whether it has been completed. Having a measurable element helps track progress and avoids confusion about completion. This gives the goal clear boundaries and expectations, increasing the likelihood of follow-through. Measurement should be simple and quick, such as a number or a clear yes-or-no outcome.
A – Achievable
The goal must be realistically achievable by considering factors such as skill level, energy levels, access to resources, and motivation. This step helps prevent burnout while still encouraging individuals to push themselves outside their comfort zone. Be honest about where you are and what you are capable of, while still setting a goal that challenges you beyond your usual routine.
R – Relevant
The goal should align with your real-life circumstances, lifestyle, and priorities. The actions required to complete the goal should directly contribute to the desired outcome. Make sure the goal is something you genuinely want to pursue and not something influenced by others’ expectations or goals.
T – Time-Bound
The goal should have a clear end date. This keeps the goal measurable and attainable throughout its duration and helps prevent loss of motivation or consistency. Having a defined endpoint encourages accountability, ongoing motivation, and trackable progress.
Applying SMART Goals to the UREC Indoor Triathlon
A great example of applying SMART goals on campus is the UREC Indoor Triathlon, in which UWM students complete swimming, biking, and running distances over a two-week period at their own pace. Participants track their progress using a log and submit it upon completion, focusing on personal achievement rather than speed. The Student Health and Wellness Center encourages students to use SMART goal planning to break the triathlon into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound steps, making the challenge adaptable to different schedules, fitness levels, and motivation while building consistency and confidence.
To find out more about the UREC indoor Triathlon, visit UREC’s website, and visit SHAW’s webpage to access more help creating SMART goals for the Triathlon.
Now it’s Your Turn!
Our advice is to have fun with SMART goals and experiment with them across different areas of your life. You can even make the process more enjoyable by rewarding yourself when you complete a goal. Goal setting may feel like a chore at first, but it actually builds motivation and encourages your brain to keep striving for more. You are capable of achieving your goals and dreams, and SMART goals are designed to help you get there. Good luck!