How I’m Setting My Q1 Goals
As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and plan for the months ahead. But let’s face it: setting goals can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when life is already busy 🫠
In past years I’ve used a system with colored sticky notes where I’d write down my yearly goals and stick ‘em on my wall, each goal paired with smaller steps on differently colored notes underneath. I even had sections for a “brain dump” and “completed” goals (see pic 1 below if I’m not explaining this very well). While it was a creative way to visualize my plans, I have to admit—I rarely looked at it, let alone used it effectively.
With some big goals on my horizon for 2025, I knew I needed a more structured approach. That’s when I discovered the SMART Goals framework. If you’re not familiar, don’t worry—I’ll explain what it is and how it’s helping me take my goal-setting to the next level.
What Is A SMART Goal?
SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It’s a framework designed to help you create clear and actionable objectives that you can actually stick to. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Specific: What exactly do you want to achieve? Be clear and concise.
Measurable: How will you know when you’ve achieved it? Define a way to track your progress.
Achievable: Is this goal realistic given your current resources and commitments?
Relevant: Does this goal align with your values and long-term objectives?
Time-bound: When do you want to accomplish this goal? Set a deadline to create urgency.
For example, instead of saying, “I want to paint more,” a SMART goal might be, “Starting next week, I will dedicate three 2-hour sessions each week for painting, creating a focused environment with reminders to minimize distractions. I will evaluate my progress after four weeks.” It’s specific, measurable, and gives you a clear roadmap to success.
Seems easy enough, right??? I really like the idea of having a deadline to meet the goals by… in my sticky note version there was no clear deadline, just an endless to-do list. For me, I work best knowing there's a deadline coming up, and if I’m being completely honest, I’m the person who waits until the very last second to even start (anyone else with me on that one?!). I do produce some of my best work under pressure though! So, having my goals broken down into smaller accomplishable tasks getting me closer towards my Q1 goals, I know I can finish them because inevitably every week I’ll be like, “Oh crap! My goal is due tomorrow!” and viola, it’ll get done! LOL!! 😂
Let’s Make This Year Count
Whether your goals are big or small, the SMART framework can make a huge difference in turning your aspirations into accomplishments. I’ve been working on refining my own goals for the new year, using this method to get really clear on what I want to achieve and how I’ll get there. Breaking down my goals into manageable, actionable weekly steps has already made me feel more focused and motivated. So, do you think this process will work for you? I’d love to hear if you give it a try and what the results were!
🎨Annie
