How to Set Goals That Actually Stick (SMART)

We’ve all set goals before—some we’ve achieved, others we’ve abandoned faster than a New Year’s resolution. The problem? Many goals are too vague, too big, or too unrealistic. That’s where the SMART goal-setting framework comes in.

The SMART method helps turn wishful thinking into actionable, achievable plans by ensuring your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Whether you’re aiming to improve your fitness, grow your career, or learn a new skill, using SMART goals gives you a clear roadmap to success.

Let’s break it down.

S – Specific: Define your Goal clearly

A goal like “I want to get fit” is too vague. What does “fit” mean? Instead, a SMART goal is specific:

✅ Example: “I will go to the gym three times a week for 45 minutes to build strength and improve endurance.”

Why It Works: Being specific removes confusion. It helps you know exactly what you need to do to move forward.

M – Measurable: Track your Progress

If you can’t measure a goal, how will you know when you’ve achieved it? Adding measurable criteria keeps you accountable.

✅ Example: Instead of saying “I want to read more”, say “I will read 10 pages every night before bed.”

Why It Works: Numbers make progress visible, so you stay motivated.

A – Achievable: Keep it Realistic

Your goal should challenge you but still be within reach. If it’s too ambitious, you risk frustration and burnout. If it’s too easy, it won’t push you to grow.

✅ Example: If you’re new to running, don’t set a goal to run a marathon in a month. Instead, aim for “I will run 3 times a week, increasing my distance by 1 km each week.”

Why It Works: Goals should stretch you without being impossible.

🚀 Fixie Tip: If your goal feels overwhelming, break it down into smaller, achievable steps.

R – Relevant: Align it with your Priorities

A goal should matter to you, not just be something you think you should do. Ask yourself: Does this align with my values and long-term plans?

✅ Example: If your focus is on improving your career, a goal like “I will complete an online course in project management by June” aligns with that mission.

Why It Works: Relevant goals keep you motivated because they connect to what truly matters.

T – Time-Bound: Set a Deadline

A goal without a deadline is just a dream. Setting a timeline adds urgency and structure.

✅ Example: Instead of saying “I want to start meditating”, say “I will meditate for 10 minutes every morning for the next 30 days.”

Why It Works: A time limit pushes you to take action instead of postponing.

🚀 Fixie Tip: Set reminders in Fixie to stay on track and hit your deadline.

Bringing it all together

Here’s how a vague goal transforms into a SMART goal:

❌ Vague Goal: “I want to get healthier.” ✅ SMART Goal: “I will exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week, for the next three months to improve my fitness.”

The difference? The second goal gives clarity, measurability, and a deadline—all factors that make success more likely.

Start Setting SMART Goals with Fixie

The SMART framework helps you set real goals that you can track, achieve, and celebrate. And with Fixie, goal-setting becomes even easier:
✅ Track progress daily
✅ Set deadlines & reminders
✅ Stay motivated with small milestones

So, what’s your next SMART goal? Set it, track it, and crush it with Fixie! 🚀