How to set attainable goals

It’s the beginning of a new month, which tends to spark the need to set new goals and work toward bigger accomplishments. The longer daylight hours also tend to lend to more energy and focus. At Infinity Health, we are all about setting attainable healthy goals but we are also aware that sometimes goal setting can go too far.

When passion becomes problematic

Setting clear goals is a huge piece of the puzzle, however, even with a path in place, there are still opportunities for problematic behaviour. The same drive, enthusiasm, and zeal that fuels success , can be every bit as destructive as it is productive.  The difference between harmonious and obsessive passion is an important distinction in psychology. Understanding the difference is key in creating healthy habits that cultivate long-term success and happiness.

The S.M.A.R.T. Goal setting System

The key to setting manageable goals is to break them down into smaller pieces. When we discuss goal setting with our clients, we like to use the S.M.A.R.T. system. This system ensures that they are purposeful, feasible to achieve and offer measurable results.

The “SMART” acronym stands for “specific,” “measurable,” “attainable,” “relevant,” and “time-bound.”  If we break each of these down, it gives us a fairly clear goal setting mandate, ensuring safe and sustainable success.

Specific

Specific goals are those that are well defined, clear and unambiguous. For many, the hardest part about setting goals is determining exactly what they want to achieve. We work with clients to set goals aimed at working toward a very specific resolution.

Measurable

To ensure we can track the success of client goals, we make sure to include specific criteria that will enable us to track the progress toward our goal. Additionally, having clear measurable results keeps clients motivated.

Achievable

This may be the most important part of our client goal setting. Making sure our goals are possible to reach is key. Working hard toward a goal with unreasonable expectations is an huge let down and will hamper results.

Realistic

As we mentioned above, having unreasonable expectations is the quickest way to derail progress. We make sure our client goals are realistic to achieve and relevant to their overall achievements.

Time-Bound

Time activating is key when setting attainable goals. Attaching a clear start date and preferred completion date creates urgency. Creating a timeline puts clients in the right mindset to start actioning toward results.

If you’d like to discuss setting up a customized goal program, we’re happy to help!