Summer is days away, and we’ve already lost track of our 2022 resolution. There are fewer encouraging gym ads, and the sexy expensive stationary bike commercials are a drip here and there. In keeping with the annual tradition to set a resolution, and in this case to lose weight, is just not enough for most of us. We need an action plan. That action plan starts with the SMART Goals Approach to Your Target Weight.. 

You’ve probably already heard the term used in your workspace. If not, it’s an acronym that helps you set up goals in a manner that can help you successfully achieve them. Although there are different abbreviations, the common ones are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. Together, they help build a framework to guide us in setting and keeping our goals.

It works interactively for weight loss. When you want to lose weight, it’s not enough to simply state that fact. You need to be more specific. Saying that you are going to lose 100 pounds is on the right track. However, it’s important to get more detailed. Challenge yourself with something measurable within an appropriate time frame .

You may notice that the essential elements of SMART have components to them that overlap. That’s okay as it reinforces the concepts. For instance, to get specific with the weight loss example, you need to define the amount of weight you want to lose plus the time frame to get it done. It’s not realistic to lose 100 pounds in ten days nor will that be attainable. Usually, when something isn’t realistic, by definition, it won’t be attainable.

Setting a time frame for weight loss is important. If you say you want to lose 100 pounds, will that be in six months or a year from now? If you don’t have a time frame set, you cannot accurately measure your success. As you can see, the components all need to work together to accomplish the goal.

You may find that the relevant component is the most purpose driven. A strong personal connection to our goal will keep us on target. “My example is to lose 2 pounds per week for the next 90 days to help lower my blood pressure and boost my metabolism so I can live a long and healthy life.” High-5 to me!

Keep in mind that there are no SMART Goals police to hold us accountable. We decide how to structure our SMART Goals plan for losing weight. And we need to set a timely deadline to hold us accountable. If we don’t hit our target weight goal within our defined time frame, we must stay committed to our purpose and create a new strategy for our SMART Goals until we do.

“The only thing standing between you and your goal is the bullshit story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.”

― Jordan Belfort