The S.M.A.R.T. goal framework but with my own spin and better.

I feel like everyone under the sun has heard of the S.M.A.R.T. Goal framework. If you haven’t, here is what the acronym stands for:

• Specific

• Measurable

• Achievable

• Realistic

• Time-bound

The idea is simple: create goals that meet this qualification and you’re much more likely to achieve them.

I posted a thread yesterday that gives 17 reasons you’re not achieving your goals. You can read it here, if interested.

As I reflected on these reasons and the S.M.A.R.T. goal framework, I realized there was something huge missing from it.

The biggest obstacle between you and your goal is STARTING.

We come up with all sorts of reasons to not start our goals.

I need this tool, resource, etc

I have too much going on

I’ll do it next week

I’m not sure

I’m tired

The list of reasons is endless. The reality is, the longer we wait to start, the harder the starting becomes.

So, I decided to add to the framework:

• Specific

• Measurable

• Achievable

• Realistic

• Time-bound

• START

I think where we struggle with this is we think starting has to be some big grand gesture.

But all we want to do is make a small commitment that forces us to take the next step.

This could be sending someone a text, making a payment, putting it on the calendar, etc.

This little action acts as a pre-commitment that significantly increases your likelihood of following through.

This week in the podcast I talk about the Quarterly Review process I do, which is an essential part of my system. It helps me start on 3 new goals each quarter. If you're interested, you can listen here.

What I'm reading

Free Time by Jenny Blake

I mentioned that I would be starting this book and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it to this point.

Jenny has amazing systems to keep her and her team efficient and working the least amount of time possible (she only works 20 hours/week).

I’ve found a few things to apply to my life, but really liked the idea of a “Manager Manual.” This is a document where I write my general working expectations so that those reporting to me can make decisions on my behalf. It helps offload work and gives people autonomy.

Question of the week

What are you going to do TODAY to commit yourself to start that goal?