In the last post, we looked at goal setting, which to the casual eye would make it seemed the traditional paper and pen goal setting is outdated. For my readers who refer pen and paper, this post gives you concrete SMART action steps, complete with measurable examples. Let us dive right in.
- Specific: “I want to lose 20 pounds in the next six months.”
Action Steps:
- Determine the specific steps needed to reach this goal, such as exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, cutting out sugary drinks, and eating more fruits and vegetables.
- Create a meal plan and grocery list that aligns with these steps.
- Find a workout routine that fits your schedule and interests.
- Consider enlisting the help of a personal trainer or nutritionist to provide guidance and support.
- Measurable: “I want to increase my annual income by 20% in the next year.”
Action Steps:
- Identify specific steps that can help you increase your income, such as negotiating for a raise, finding a higher paying job, or starting a side hustle.
- Set specific financial targets for each month to track your progress towards your overall goal.
- Seek out professional development opportunities to improve your skills and increase your value to potential employers or clients.
- Network with others in your industry to find potential job or business opportunities.
- Attainable: “I want to run a marathon in the next two years.”
Action Steps:
- Determine your current fitness level and create a training plan that allows you to gradually build up your endurance.
- Find a local marathon to participate in and sign up for it to create a sense of accountability.
- Set smaller, achievable goals along the way, such as running a 5K or a half marathon.
- Consider working with a coach or joining a running group to provide support and guidance as you train.
- Relevant: “I want to improve my public speaking skills in order to advance in my career.”
Action Steps:
- Identify specific areas of public speaking that you want to improve, such as confidence, presentation skills, or clarity of delivery.
- Seek out opportunities to practice public speaking, such as joining a local toastmasters group or volunteering to give presentations at work.
- Consider working with a public speaking coach or taking a course to learn new techniques and strategies.
- Set specific goals for each practice session, such as speaking in front of a group for a certain amount of time or delivering a presentation on a specific topic.
- Time-bound: “I want to save $10,000 for a down payment on a house within the next three years.”
Action Steps:
- Determine how much money you need to save each month to reach your goal within the allotted time frame.
- Create a budget and stick to it to ensure that you are saving enough money each month.
- Consider finding ways to increase your income or reduce your expenses in order to reach your saving goals faster.
- Set specific deadlines for reaching intermediate saving goals, such as $2,000 in six months or $5,000 in a year.
Sometimes we overcomplicate things, which often leads to procrastination. Change takes time, be patient with yourself. Be consistent. Screenshot each step and go out there and get yours!
Best of luck this year:)
Warmly,
Juan
Chindeepinlife 