Setting SMART Goals: Part 3 of 3

Many times, couples may set goals as a couple, but it is also essential to have individual goals that are relevant to the individuals in the relationship. It's important to set couple goals not only to share exciting experiences, but to keep the couple on the same page. For example, if one person wants to move to Alaska but the other wants to live in Hawaii, this could certainly be detrimental to their relationship! But the couple could set a goal to vacation together in Australia, as long as this is a goal that both parties are excited and passionate about achieving.

Individual goals are needed because not all goals are shared. If, for example, the husband has always wanted to own a Harley Davidson motorcycle, but the wife is not at all interested in sharing this experience, then this would be an individual goal for the husband. The wife's goal would be something that excites her, but isn't necessarily exciting for the husband (such as a huge shopping spree, launching her own line of jewelry, winning a particular award that holds meaning for her, or taking a "girls-only" cruise with her friends).

Besides being specific, measurable, attainable and relevant, SMART goals must be Timely.

There's an old adage that says, "Work expands to fill the time allotted." The same is true for goals. Consider that if you set a goal for one year from now, it will likely take you a year (or longer) to achieve that goal.

The reason for this is simple: if you know you have a full year to achieve the goal, it is highly unlikely that you will begin to take action today to manifest that goal.

On the other hand, if you took the same exact goal and set it for two months from now, you would likely have to get into action today in order to actualize it. The "timely" aspect of your goal relates to what kind of timetable you'll place on it.

Generally speaking, you can take whatever timeline seems reasonable for achieving your goal and cut it in half. So if you feel very comfortable achieving your goal within six months, consider setting that same goal for three months, for maximum effectiveness.

Once you've set your goal and ensured that it's specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely, the next step is to write it down. Studies have shown that people who write down their goals are ten times more likely to achieve their goal than people who don't write down their goal.

Bob Proctor, a noted author, coach, motivational speaker and personal development product creator, recommends phrasing your goal in the following manner:

Today is (insert future date: the date by which you wish to have accomplished your goal), and I am so happy and grateful now that (here, state your goal as though it already accomplished). I am thankful for this or something even better.

Here is a specific example.

Today is March 1, 2011, and I am so happy and grateful now that I'm driving my brand new 2011 Toyota Highlander. I am thankful for this or something even better.

Now that you understand SMART goals, it's time to go set goals of your own. Have fun!