Hello 2025, we’re 25 days in. A new year gives us a chance to reflect on the last one and do better in the next one. It’s the perfect time for goal setting. And the SMART goals strategy could be just what you need to achieve success this time around.

Having a plan and being intentional can help you reach your goals.

What are SMART goals?

SMART is an acronym for setting goals that are:

  • Specific – Say you want to save money, how much money do you actually want to save? Be exact. Like, I’d like to save $4,000 by December 31, 2025.
  • Measurable – Is the goal you set measurable? That’s the only way to track your success. Sticking with the savings goal above. You may decide to contribute a specific amount every pay period to reach your goal. So, you’ll be able to check every month or quarter to see if reaching your goal is possible and adjust if you need to.
  • Attainable – Is the goal you set even possible? The quickest way to lose steam is when you set a goal that is impossible to reach.
  • Relevant – Does the goal that you set align with the personal vision you have for yourself. If not, you may want to consider setting goals that put you on the path for realizing that vision.
  • Timebound – When do you expect to reach your goal? Make sure to set a target date. You may have short term and long-term goal. The important thing is to manage expectations and keep your goals out in front of you.

Some steps to help you reach your SMART goals:

  • Look at where you are and where you want to be. This is your vision for what you’d like to accomplish.
  • Create financial goals that align with your vision. Say you want to buy a house. Your goals may be to raise your credit score or set aside a specific amount of money for your downpayment.
  • Write your goals down. It’s been proven that when you write your goals down with paper and pen/pencil they stick better. There is just something about physically writing them down. I encourage you to give it a try and see what you think for yourself.
  • Every serious effort requires a game plan or strategy. Think through the actions needed to achieve your goals. Craft your plan with the steps you’ll take to make those goals happen.

Stay Positive and Don’t Give Up on Your Goals

Believe in yourself and stay focused on your goals. If you struggle in this area, you may want to find an accountability partner to help you on this journey.

Seeing is believing – If you’re saving for some new furniture, posting images on your fridge can help keep you motivated to achieve your goal. Paying down debt? Keep a visual that shows you how much you’ve paid off and update this visual monthly.

Life Happens. And it’s important to understand that sometimes we have to shift our goals when something out of our control happens. We must be willing to learn the lesson and do something to put ourselves in a better position the next time. For example, funding an emergency savings account for unexpected expenses that may pop up.

Lastly, understand that money is not as simple as knowing: 1 + 1 = 2.

Behavior is a big driver, so practicing Discipline and Self-control can help you make your financial goals a reality.

Best wishes!