I had always heard about S.M.A.R.T. goals but I wasn’t sure what that actually meant. I struggled with setting goals and then actually accomplishing them. I would set several New Year’s resolutions each December, but I can promise you by January 31st, I couldn’t remember what they were.

I started working at various companies and had to actually set S.M.A.R.T goals in order to get a decent raise. I had to find things that would stimulate my growth in my current position, while helping the company prosper. I managed to do it, but I disliked it and always relied on someone else to tell me what my goals should be. I faked it pretty well and got my raises.

Now, I have my own business and I set S.M.A.R.T goals for myself; ones that I create and ones that I don’t want to fake my way through. If you’re like me and need help knowing what S.M.A.R.T goals are, here’s a breakdown:

SPECIFIC: You must bring clarity to what you what to accomplish by being as specific as possible:

Wrong Example: I will save more money this year

Right Example: I will save $5,000 by December 31st

MEASURABLE: This is where you can truly measure whether or not you hit a goal.

Wrong Example: I will lose weight

Right Example: I will weigh 125 lbs. by May 15th current weight: 130 lbs.

ACTION ORIENTED: Use action verbs when setting goals such as: reduce, save, earn, exercise, invest, enroll, run, etc.

Wrong Example: I will be more consistent with exercise

Right example: I will exercise five days a week

REALISTIC: If your goals are too big, you are setting yourself up for failure. I encourage you to set goals that stretch you and cause you to grow, but are also attainable.

Wrong Example: I will save $50,000 by May 31st (from my salary of $70,000 per year)

Right Example: I will save 10% of my current salary = $7,000 by May 31st

TIMELINE: Deadlines are motivating. Always establish a “due” date. It keeps you motivated to achieve the goal you’ve set. The most productive day of the year is the day before vacation. Why? There’s a deadline. The quickest way to clear your house is to invite company over. Why? There’s a deadline.

Wrong Example: I will write my book

Right Example: I will finish my manuscript by September 30th

It may take some time to set your S.M.A.R.T goals and start accomplishing them, but if you want your business to succeed, it is something you must learn to do!