Chapter 1: Understanding S.M.A.R.T. Goals

Can we incorporate S.M.A.R.T. goals into our personal lives? This question sparked my curiosity.

For many years, I have been immersed in entrepreneurship. In fact, I recently came to the realization that I have only worked as an employee for six months throughout my lengthy career. As a business owner, my survival hinges on profits, and I have consistently found that these profits are rooted in clear objectives. I take pleasure in analyzing numbers through spreadsheets, which can be visualized in charts that vividly illustrate trends and that delightful upward trajectory into profitability. Additionally, I enjoy marketing because it allows me to inform potential clients of my readiness to assist them.

When I instruct business owners and writers in marketing, I always begin with goal-setting—specifically, S.M.A.R.T. goals. This framework has been a staple in my life beyond the business realm for years.

For those unfamiliar with this acronym, let’s quickly revisit its components. "S" signifies Specific, which must always include a quantifiable element. For instance, I might aim to walk for 30 minutes, read for an hour, or save $100 monthly. "M" stands for Measurable. While some aspirations, like becoming kinder, can be challenging to quantify, many can be measured effectively. "A" represents Attainable. It's essential to set realistic objectives that can be achieved within a reasonable timeframe. For example, I might start jogging, but winning a marathon is likely out of reach. "R" means Realistic and Relevant. This familiar concept emphasizes that goals should progress incrementally. If I aspire to run, my initial step must be walking—only at a quicker pace. Finally, "T" is for Time-oriented. Saying, "I will save $100" lacks impact unless I specify when and how often I plan to save.

Despite my enthusiasm for S.M.A.R.T. goals, I found myself pondering a crucial question recently: Are our objectives driven by external expectations or internal desires, and why does this distinction matter?

For instance, if I aim to write a bestselling novel, I may be setting myself up for disappointment. Numerous unpredictable factors play a role, some of which are foreseeable. At nearly 70 years old and having authored only one self-published book, I am still in the process of mastering the art of memoir writing. Time is not on my side, although I would love to be pleasantly surprised.

On the other hand, I can confidently set a goal to complete my book this year and submit it to an editor for review by December. While it's fantastic to aspire to ambitious targets, we must ensure they are not so vague or unattainable that we lose motivation. For instance, after my accident and hip replacement, I began to gradually increase my walking distance by just 50 feet per day. Though this may seem minimal, it adds up to 15,000 feet over 300 days—nearly three miles! This is an achievable target, and surpassing such modest goals can provide the necessary encouragement.

Most objectives should concentrate on achievable actions within our control. I can commit to producing five blog posts each week, but I cannot dictate how many people will read them. This illustrates the internal versus external goal distinction.

While we should establish our decisions based on realistic expectations, we must also recognize that outcomes may not always align with our efforts. Therefore, it’s crucial to strive for logical, attainable goals.

Numerous sayings and quotes remind us of the power of perseverance. Here are a few of my favorites:

• “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” — Chinese Proverb
• “Opportunities are usually disguised as hard work, so most people don’t recognize them.” — Ann Landers
• “Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty, and persistence.” — Colin Powell
• “If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run then walk. If you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

We should remind ourselves to adhere to our thoughtfully crafted goals. And if we falter one day? If we oversleep and miss our morning routine, should we give up? Absolutely not—let’s pick ourselves up and continue onward.

It's essential to reflect on our true priorities daily. Few individuals express a desire to have worked more when their time comes to an end, and I firmly believe this.

This year, I am taking the time to appreciate the beauty around me, care for myself, and nurture my loved ones. And I am determined to finish my book! How about you? In what ways have your priorities evolved over time? I would love to hear your thoughts.

The Importance of Mindfulness Through Walking

Walking provides immense benefits for both the mind and body.

This video offers insights on how to set S.M.A.R.T. goals, complete with practical examples.

This video discusses the significance of S.M.A.R.T. goals in personal development and how they can foster growth.

Cindy is in the process of writing a memoir that chronicles her experiences growing up on a homestead in Alaska, farming in the southwestern United States, owning bookstores, and much more. Access exclusive family photos here.