How to Set Attainable Goals

Keys to Reaching Your New Year’s Resolution

It’s that time of year again! The new year is here, and with it comes our list of New Year’s Resolutions. But how can we make these goals more achievable? Let’s go through some steps to make sure you put your best foot forward in 2025!

One method for setting achievable goals is the SMART goal framework. This stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely criteria for success. Let’s break down each point.

Specific

We need your goal to be specific. Instead of saying, “I want to be more active,” let’s reframe it to, “My goal is to run a half marathon.” This is a more specific goal that helps you focus on exactly what you want to achieve.

Measurable

Instead of just hoping that you get stronger, we now need to add a way to measure this goal. Maybe you see how far you can run to start, and then track the progress of each of your runs. For example, tracking your pace and total distance each week can give a good indication of progress!

Achievable

Now we need to make sure the goal is attainable. Do you have the resources and skills needed to achieve this goal? For our example, this might include having good running shoes, finding a running program online, or being able to commit the time needed for consistent training.

Relevant

Why are you setting this goal? Is it important to you, and does it align with your values? If moving more and getting better at running matters to you, you’re more likely to stay committed. Ask yourself, “Does this goal align with my personal priorities and lifestyle?”

Timely

Set a realistic timeline for achieving your goal. If you want to run a half marathon but currently don’t run, expecting to reach your target in two months might be too ambitious. However, aiming to achieve this by August is much more realistic. Consider breaking your timeline into smaller milestones, such as increasing your total distance slowly each week.

Now that you have the structure to create SMART goals, write them out and revisit them regularly to stay on track. Remember, resolutions are about progress, not perfection—celebrate each step forward! Here’s to making 2025 your most successful year yet!