If you don't set SMART goals, you are setting yourself up to fail. As the saying goes, “If You Fail to Plan, You Are Planning to Fail”.
We've collected some SMART goals examples that can help you achieve your dreams and bring results. So, what is SMART actually? It's an abbreviation with the following meaning:
SMART – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound.
For the examples below, we chose the Realistic criterion as the Relevant criterion is different for each person.
1. Athletic Goal
Weak Goal Example
Run a marathon in London
SMART Goal Example
I will practice three times a week to complete the London Marathon in October in four hours.
Why is this a SMART goal?
This goal is specific (a marathon in London), measurable (in four hours), attainable (four hours is an ambitious goal, but it is feasible with the right training), realistic (one is going to train three times a week to complete a marathon) and time-related (October).
2. Personal Development Goal
Weak Goal Example
Learn digital art
SMART Goal Example
I’m going to take a 30-day online iPad drawing course this quarter to develop my first drawing skills.
Why is this a SMART goal?
This goal is specific (first drawing skills), measurable (there will be a certificate upon completion), attainable (it will only take 30 days, not six months), realistic (the course takes only one hour to dedicate each day), and time-bound (this quarter).
3. Relationship Goal
Weak Goal Example
Improve my relationship with my parents
SMART Goal Example
I will call my parents every day for 3 months to develop my relationships with them.
Why is this a SMART goal?
This goal is specific (develop relationships with parents), measurable (call every day), attainable and realistic (regular communication with parents is not that difficult), and time-related (for 3 months).
4. Travel or Vacation Goal
Weak Goal Example
Travel abroad
SMART Goal Example
Choose a 7-day Greece hot tour up to $1000 until the end of the month.
Why is this a SMART goal?
This goal is specific (Greece hot tour), measurable (7-day), attainable and realistic (up to $1000 is inexpensive) and time-bound (until the end of the month).
5. Financial Independence Goal
Weak Goal Example
Become financially independent
SMART Goal Example
I want to have a monthly income of $10,000 in six months to sustain myself and save money to buy a house.
Why is this a SMART goal?
This goal is specific (sustain myself and save money), measurable ($10,000 a month), attainable ($10,000 is enough to sustain yourself and save for real estate capital), realistic (if you get a good job, you can make more than $10,000 a month) and time-related (in six months).