Making resolutions for the new year is a time-worn tradition -- but for as long as people have been setting goals, they’ve frequently fallen short of reaching them. It’s easy enough to write down a list of wishes, but it takes a little more consideration and effort to craft goals you can actually achieve. We like to use the SMART goal framework outlined below -- see how your resolutions stack up, and what changes you could make to them to give you a higher chance of success!

Specific

Make sure your goals are focused and identify a tangible outcome. Without the specifics, your goal runs the risk of being too vague to attain. Being more specific helps you identify what exactly you want to achieve.

Measurable

You should build a clear definition of success into each new goal. This will help you to evaluate achievement as you track your progress. This component should answer the questions “how much” or “how many” and highlight how you will know you have achieved your goal.

Attainable

Your goal should be challenging, but still reasonable to achieve. Reflecting on this component can also reveal any potential barriers that you may need to overcome to realize success. You should be able to outline the steps you’re planning to take to achieve your goal, addressing these barriers and charting a realistic path to success.

Relevant

This is about getting real with yourself and ensuring what you’re trying to achieve is worthwhile to you. Determining if this is aligned to your values and if it is a priority focus for you. This helps you pinpoint why this goal is important to you.

Time-Bound

Every goal needs a target date, something that motivates you to really apply the focus and discipline necessary to achieve it. You need to identify when you’re aiming to complete your goal. It’s important to set a realistic time frame to achieve your goal to ensure you don’t get discouraged along the way.