As we welcome the new year, everyone is busy making New Year’s resolutions. But here’s the thing: I don’t make resolutions. I set goals. And not just at the start of the year—I set goals throughout the year whenever I have something I want to achieve or a project I want to fund.
If you’re serious about reaching your goals, I recommend using the SMART goal method. SMART stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-Bound
Example SMART Goal: Building My Emergency Fund
Here’s an example of a SMART goal I’ve set for myself:
“I am going to fund my emergency fund with the equivalent of 3 paychecks by the end of 2025.”
- Specific: The goal is clear—I’m saving money for unexpected expenses that aren’t covered by my regular budget.
- Measurable: I’ve set a specific target—3 paychecks’ worth of savings.
- Achievable: I’ve calculated how much I need to save each month to make this possible.
- Relevant: Having a strong emergency fund is important to me because it gives me financial security.
- Time-Bound: The goal will be achieved by the end of 2025.
Why SMART Goals Work
Making your goals specific helps you focus and gives you a clear path forward. When you know exactly what you want to achieve, you can break it down into smaller tasks and work backwards. For example, are there any small tasks or steps you need to take to reach your goal?
Without a time frame, a goal just stays in the “someday” category. Having a deadline helps you stay motivated and track your progress.
Being relevant means your goal matters to you—it’s something you genuinely care about and are motivated to achieve. And finally, achievable means setting yourself up for success. Don’t set a goal that’s too big or unrealistic. Be honest with yourself so you can meet your targets and feel accomplished.
Other Goals I Have for 2025
Here are a few more goals I’ve set for myself this year:
- Jiu-Jitsu: Attend at least 150 classes this year (an average of 3 times a week).
- Gym: Go to the gym at least 3 times a week.
- Non-Specific Goals:
- Complete my kitchen project (I know the cost, but how am I funding it?)
- Meet with a family law attorney.
- Meet my daily protein and water intake goals (What behaviors will I change to make this happen?)
Time to Get Started
Grab a piece of paper or open a new document and start brainstorming your goals. Then, go back and turn some of them into SMART goals. You’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to achieve your goals once they’re clear and actionable.
Let’s make 2025 the year we crush our goals!