Creating your own goals is a great way for you to evaluate yourself – see which skills you want to improve on, which dreams you want to achieve, and which fears you want to conquer. However, not all of the goals that you list down can be achieved within a year. There are certain goals that need to be broken down into smaller goals in order for you to accomplish. With this, you must learn how to create S.M.A.R.T. goals.

What are S.M.A.R.T. goals? Here are 5 steps that can help you create them:

1. Specific.

Goals should be straightforward, clear, and focused. Being specific helps you focus your effort and clearly define what needs to be done. The moment you focus on a goal, the more it pulls you closer towards the resources you need to achieve it. To set specific goals, you must answer the six ‘W’ questions which are Who, What, Where, When, Which, Why in determining these goals.

2. Measurable

Create goals with a measurable progress, as this helps you stay on track, see changes, reach target dates, and experience the excitement of achieving something. You can ask yourself questions like “how much,” “how many,” or “how will I know.”

3. Attainable

Identifying which goals are important helps you begin to figure out ways to achieve them. Start thinking which abilities, skills, and attitude you need to develop first, then seek opportunities that would bring you closer to the stage of achievement. Your goals need to give you a bit of challenge in order for you to fully commit to them.

4. Realistic

Your goals must reflect your current capabilities and your overall dream. You must know how much time and effort you can offer upon reaching your goal. Similarly, you can set higher standards in creating your goals to motivate you beyond your comfort zone. This way, you can gain a sense of achievement if you’ve overcome challenges.

5. Time-based

Set timeframes for your goals. Putting an endpoint gives you a clear target to work on. This gives you sense of urgency as well, which is why the time you set must be measurable, attainable, and realistic. Always consider your current activities, and how they would affect the goals you have planned.