Making S.M.A.R.T Goals

As the new year, and new decade begins it is usually the time that people reflect and dictate which new habits to adopt and which to leave behind. However, often times people make resolutions that they cannot stick to. To make goals that are practical and easy to follow, try to make S.M.A.R.T goals.

1. Make sure that your goals are Specific. For example, instead of saying “I will seek out help”. Instead, decide which specific recovery center you want to go to as well as what you plan to seek treatment for, and which addiction counselor you want to speak to. “I will go to this specific recovery center , talk to this addiction counselor for my drug dependency and seek treatment for _____.”

2. Measureable. Use a measurable number to ensure that your goal is trackable. Maybe something like “I want to see my addiction counselor 4 times a month.” This way you have something to stick to which allows it to be easier to make progress.

3. Attainable. Your goal may be challenging and tough at times but ensure that it is achievable. Make sure that you have the resources and means to make it happen, if not reach out to someone that can guide you in the right direction.

4. Relevant. Make your goal specific to your life and what YOU need. This goal should revolve around you and improve your life and way of living.

5. Timely. Make sure that your goal has a deadline that you are actively working towards.

Although making goals are tough, New Year’s is a great time to re-evaluate and come up with habits that will increase your quality of life and make yourself a better person all around. Happy New Year’s!