The arrival of a new year often sparks resolutions aimed at enhancing one’s life, be it through improved health, new habits, or behavioral changes. To navigate these transformations effectively, Brittney Schrick, an extension associate professor and family life specialist at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, emphasizes the importance of setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-sensitive) goals.
Many individuals struggle with forming new habits due to the misconception that perfection is necessary from the start. ‘Sometimes, if we “fail” at something, we give up,’ Schrick explained. ‘What is lost here is the idea that practice is necessary.’ She advocates for a mindset where individuals permit themselves to err and restart their efforts as needed.
Understanding SMART Goals
Schrick elaborates on crafting effective SMART goals:
- Specific and Measurable: ‘Rather than general statements like, “I need to get healthier,” specify your goal: “I want to eat more vegetables, aiming for at least two servings during two meals daily.” This clarity aids in maintaining focus.’
- Attainable: Goals should be realistically attainable. ‘For instance, if you have never run, stating “I will run a marathon this summer” may not be achievable. Setting a goal to run a 5k would be a more manageable step.’
- Relevant: It is crucial that personal motivation drives your goals. ‘Ensure that your objectives resonate with your desires rather than societal pressures,’ Schrick said.
- Time-sensitive: Goals need deadlines to foster accountability. ‘You can aim to achieve your goal daily, and if missed, allow yourself to try again the next day instead of giving up,’ Schrick urged.
Embracing Mental and Emotional Wellness
While physical improvements often dominate resolutions, Schrick encourages considering mental and emotional well-being. ‘Improving physical health is commendable, but many abandon these goals if results aren’t seen quickly,’ she noted. Setting goals such as reading more, socializing, or simply spending more time outdoors can significantly boost emotional wellness.
She also shared insights on the power of positive self-talk: ‘Practicing kindness towards yourself and reframing negative thoughts can change your mental landscape, often without immediate recognition of these benefits.’
Organizing living spaces can bolster mental health as well. Schrick suggests collaborative family approaches to chores, establishing shared responsibilities, and helping to instill accountability among family members by visual trackers like chore charts.
‘Discussing shared goals and incentives can motivate family members to maintain a tidy environment together, making goal achievement more enjoyable,’ she explained.
For additional resources on family well-being, visit the Cooperative Extension Service’s Personal and Family Well-Being page.
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