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How to Chase Dreams using the SMARTER Goals System

Learn how to set and achieve SMARTER goals. Find tips, benefits, and real examples to turn your dreams into reality. Start achieving your goals today!

 

How to Chase Your Dreams and Achieve Your Goals Using the SMARTER System

Dreaming big is easy; the hard part is turning those dreams into reality. Whether you want to start your own business, learn a new skill, or achieve personal growth, goal setting is the bridge that connects where you are now to where you want to be. But not all goal-setting approaches are created equal. If you often find yourself setting goals but rarely achieving them, it might be time for a paradigm shift.

Enter the SMARTER System—a tried-and-tested approach that helps people refine their dreams into achievable actions. This blog will guide you through what the SMARTER System is, how to implement it, and specific examples to inspire you. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the tools to set effective goals, chase your dreams, and achieve them.

What Is the SMARTER System?

The SMARTER System is an evolution of the popular SMART goal-setting framework. While SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) have long been a staple for those serious about achieving success, adding “Evaluated” and “Rewarded” to the original formula supercharges its effectiveness. The result? A more reflective and fulfilling approach to turning aspirations into accomplishments.

Whether you’re working on personal goals or professional ambitions, the SMARTER System allows you to break down your objectives into smaller, actionable steps while continuously assessing and celebrating progress. It’s practical, adaptable, and focused on long-term results.

Breaking Down the SMARTER Acronym

S – Specific

Loosely defined goals are a recipe for frustration. The more precise your objectives, the clearer your path to achieving them. Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” try, “I will exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week.” With a specific plan in place, you know exactly what steps to take.

M – Measurable

How will you know if you’re making progress? Measurement is key. Assigning numbers or metrics to your goals adds clarity. For example:

  • Goal: “I want to save money.”
  • Measurable Version: “I will save $5,000 within six months by cutting unnecessary expenses and creating a budget plan.”

Tracking your milestones lets you monitor progress and stay motivated.

A – Achievable

It’s essential to aim high, but your goals should still be realistic. Stretch yourself, but stay within the realm of possibility based on your resources and constraints. For instance, running a marathon in two months with zero training might be unachievable, but completing a 5K could be a strong starting point.

R – Relevant

Does your goal align with your broader life vision? Relevant goals resonate with your values and priorities, giving you a powerful “why” to fuel your efforts. For example, if you value personal growth and connection, a goal like “Attend one networking event every month” might resonate more than unrelated aspirations.

T – Time-Bound

Deadlines create urgency and keep you accountable. When will you achieve your goal? Whether it’s weekly, monthly, or annually, defining this timeframe ensures you’re always working toward something within a set period.

E – Evaluated

Self-reflection separates dreamers from achievers. Regularly assess your progress to see what’s working and what’s not. Ask yourself:

  • Am I on track to meet my goals?
  • What can I adjust to improve my results?

Consistent evaluation helps you recalibrate and move forward more effectively.

R – Rewarded

Celebrating wins is non-negotiable. Rewards can be as simple as treating yourself to a favorite meal or as indulgent as a weekend getaway—whatever keeps you motivated. Recognizing your hard work boosts morale and reinforces positive behaviors.

Benefits of Implementing the SMARTER System in Goal Setting

Why adopt the SMARTER System? Because it’s more than just a tool—it’s a mindset. Here are the key benefits:

  • Clarity: You know exactly what you’re working toward and how to get there.
  • Motivation: Breaking goals into smaller milestones prevents overwhelm and keeps you inspired.
  • Accountability: Frequent evaluations ensure you stay on track.
  • Fulfillment: Celebrating achievements makes the process enjoyable and rewarding.
  • Flexibility: It adapts to personal and professional goals, offering versatility for all areas of life.

Practical Examples of SMARTER Goals

Need inspiration? Here are real-life applications of the SMARTER System:

  • Career Goal:
    • Specific: “I will earn a promotion to a managerial role.”
    • Measurable: “I will lead at least 3 successful projects over the next year.”
    • Achievable: “I’ll build leadership skills by taking an online management course.”
    • Relevant: “This aligns with my long-term vision of growing in my career.”
    • Time-Bound: “I’ll achieve this by December 2024.”
    • Evaluated: “I’ll review progress every quarter.”
    • Rewarded: “Celebrate with a team lunch or a short trip.”
  • Personal Health Goal:
    • Specific: “I will lose 10 pounds.”
    • Measurable: “Track weight loss weekly using a smart scale.”
    • Achievable: “Work out 4 times a week and stick to a low-carb diet.”
    • Relevant: “Improved health aligns with my long-term goal of running a marathon.”
    • Time-Bound: “Lose 10 pounds in 3 months.”
    • Evaluated: “Check progress every month.”
    • Rewarded: “Buy a new pair of running shoes.”

Tips for Staying Motivated While Chasing Your Dreams

Chasing dreams can be rewarding but challenging. Here are additional tips:

  1. Visualize Success:

Imagine the feeling of achieving your dream. This visualization can create a mental anchor to remind you why you started.

  1. Find Accountability Partners:

Share your goals with someone who can check in with you. Accountability adds a layer of external motivation.

  1. Focus on the Process:

Celebrate your daily efforts instead of obsessing over results. Satisfaction comes from progress, not perfection.

  1. Learn From Setbacks:

Failure is a stepping stone, not a dead end. Use failures as feedback and continually refine your approach.

Make Your Dreams Happen

Dreams don’t work unless you do. The SMARTER System helps you channel your energy into effective, actionable steps that bring you closer to success. You’ve already taken the first step by learning about this method—now it’s time to apply it.

Start setting SMARTER goals today and watch as you unlock your full potential.

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