Creating SMART Goals That Both Inspire You and Honor God

Creating SMART goals is a powerful way to clarify your intentions, focus your efforts, and use your time and resources productively. When crafted thoughtfully, these goals not only help you achieve what you set out to do but also build excitement for the road ahead. Whether these are career goals, health goals, or any number of personal aspirations, being able to set and achieve goals allows you to appreciate the path you are on and what it took to come this far. Here’s how to create SMART goals that not only guide you toward achievement but also take into account the life God calls us into. As His image bearers, we find our fullest expression and satisfaction when our ambitions align with His desire for us to be men after His own heart, looking at Christ every step of the way, regardless of the type of goal it is.

Example Goal: "I want to be more productive with my day"

1. Specific: Define What Productivity Looks Like for You

Transform the vague wish "I want to be more productive with my day" into a specific goal. Specify what being productive means in your context. It might be, "I want to complete all my work-related tasks by 6 PM daily so I can have uninterrupted family time in the evening." This clarity sets a definite target and frames your efforts.

2. Measurable: Establish Parameters for Measuring Productivity

Decide how you will measure your productivity. This could be through the number of tasks completed, the hours spent productively, or the reduction of unfinished work at the end of the day. For example, "I aim to reduce my unfinished tasks by 50% within the next two months."

3. Achievable: Ensure Your Goal is Realistic

Set a goal that stretches your capabilities but remains within the realm of feasibility. Consider your current productivity levels and resources. A goal like, "I will use a time management app to track and limit the time I spend on non-work-related activities to 30 minutes per day," is practical and achievable.

4. Relevant: Align with Your Larger Life Goals

Ensure that increasing your productivity will benefit other areas of your life. For instance, "Enhancing my daily productivity will free up more time for volunteer work on weekends," aligns with personal values and broader life goals, making the effort more meaningful and motivating.

5. Time-bound: Set a Deadline

Adding a deadline provides urgency and a timeframe for assessment. You might decide, "I will achieve my new productivity level within three months." This timeframe motivates you to act and provides a clear endpoint to work towards.

The Importance of Accountability in Goal Achievement

Accountability is crucial in the journey toward reaching your goals. It keeps you committed to your path and responsive to both progress and setbacks. By involving someone else in your goal-setting process, you significantly increase your chances of success through enhanced motivation and support.
Did you know? American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) indicates that people are approximately 65% more likely to meet a goal after committing to another person. Their chances of success increase to 95% when they build in ongoing meetings with their accountability partners to check in on their progress.

How to Establish Effective Accountability:

• Choose the Right People: Select someone who shares your values and understands your goals. This could be a coach, a trusted friend, a family member, or a group from your church community.

• Set Regular Check-ins: Whether it's weekly, biweekly, or monthly, regular check-ins create a rhythm of accountability that keeps you focused.

• Be Transparent: Openly share both your successes and your struggles. Authenticity in your updates leads to meaningful advice and genuine support.

• Use Tools and Resources: Leverage tools like digital trackers, journals, or shared documents to maintain and visualize progress. These tools can serve as another layer of accountability and a tangible reminder of your journey.

I would also add that incorporating accountability with someone who shares you faith and values not only propels you towards your objectives but also can keep you rooted in biblical principles. Embrace healthy accountability, and watch how it transforms not just what you do, but who you become.

How to Take Action:

If you’ve been contemplating significant changes or achieving personal goals and find yourself hesitating, consider coaching. It’s not just about having someone to report to; it’s about having a partner in your journey towards personal and professional growth. A coach will ask hard questions friends and family might not ask, and sometimes we need those questions to be asked of us. Accountability is powerful, and with the right support, reaching your goals becomes not just a possibility but a probability.

Schedule your free consultation now and take the first step toward achieving those goals you can no longer wait to pursue.