How to Set Smart Health Goals

Before I get into the thick of it, let me explain what SMART goals means.

SMART goals are:

Specific. Measurable. Attainable. Realistic. Time Bound. 

To set SMART health goals for yourself, your plan should focus on more than just physical health. It should encompass your mental health and your general well-being as well, because focusing on just one aspect can leave you drained in other areas! Setting a SMART goal requires you to think about each factor involved in achieving your goal. Clearly defining each of the five characteristics can help to define a pathway to reaching the goal. The more well-defined that pathway becomes, the easier it is to follow!

Here are some examples of SMART goals you can adjust to suit your personal goals.

Goals for physical health:

S= I want to improve my fitness level, starting with walking.

M= walking 2 miles with ease, working up to 4-5 miles.

A= I will walk three days per week, varying duration and speed: Two 30 minute walks will be at a fast pace. One 45 minute walk will be at a slower speed.

R= Frequent walking is relevant to my other objectives of gaining energy and getting healthier.

T= 30 minutes, 3 times per week.

Goals for nutrition:

S= I would like to make clean eating a lifelong habit.

M= I will resist junk food and eating at restaurants.

A= I will accomplish it by pre-planning my meals, starting with Lindsay Anderson’s 7 day meal plan.

R= Weight loss and clean eating are relevant to my other objectives of getting healthier and cooking for myself.

T= 7 days per week.

Goals for mental health:

S= I want to be kinder to myself and others.

M= More forgiving towards mistakes.

A= I will achieve this by practicing positive self-reflection and journaling.

R= A positive outlook will help aid in accomplishing my other goals.

T= 30 minutes, 7 days per week.

Goals for general well-being:

S= I want to be a relaxed, loving and peaceful person.

M= I will be able to keep cool, not lose my temper and feel more inner peace.

A= I will achieve it by meditating at least once per day.

R= I know others that have done it.

T= 30 minutes, 6 days per week.

I hope this article encourages you to set SMART goals for yourself!

If you're not sure where to start, let's chat! Check out my workout plans or say hi on Instagram! I'd love to connect with you over there!

xo

Lindsay