The concept of SMART goals, developed by George T. Doran in 1981, is the most widely-used acronym-based goal setting technique. The letters of the acronym have stood for different words over time, and the following are the ones I find the most helpful in setting goals.

Specific. Identify specific actions and break them down into smaller steps. Identify days, times and activities. State each goal as a positive statement. Instead of “Save money,” you may wish to use one of the following: “Set up savings account,” or “Put $50 into my savings account each month.”

Measurable. Identify changes you plan to see that indicate you are attaining your goal. For example, within six months, I will have $300 in my savings account.

Achievable. Make sure your goal is realistic and can be reached. If you aim too high, you may not be able to attain your goal and you will wind up feeling frustrated and disappointed in yourself. For example, if you are just taking up running, don’t plan to run a marathon. A more achievable goal might be to run 5 kilometres.

Relevant. When identifying your goal, ensure that it corresponds with a need in your life, or an area of your life you are unsatisfied with and motivated to change.

Time bound. Break your goal down into steps and set deadlines for accomplishment. Schedule these steps and deadlines into your calendar. If your goal is to complete a project, book regular time into your schedule to read, research or write. If your goal is to eat healthier, schedule the time to make your meal plan, buy groceries and prepare meals. Be reasonable with your deadlines to avoid putting undue pressure on yourself or achieving something that will be impossible to sustain.

Now, get started on achieving what you most want in life! There is no time like the present.