_{See: https://www.bitesizelearning.co.uk/resources/smart-goals-meaning-examples}

with the following one:

'I will run twice a week for at least two miles so I can finish a marathon by the end of 2024.'

📌 Specific – Define your goal clearly. What exactly do you want to accomplish?

📏 Measurable – Track your progress.

• If you can’t measure it, you can’t celebrate progress.

• Numbers, milestones, or tangible outcomes make goals motivating.

• Instead of “I’ll practice more,” try “I’ll practice for 25 minutes then take a 5-minute break”

• Tip: Decide how you’ll check in—daily, weekly, or monthly.

• Ask yourself, how will I know I’ve achieved it?

🚀 Relevant – Connect it to what matters.

• A goal should align with your bigger priorities and values.

• If your main focus is get function work, a goal like “expand my song repertoire” is more relevant than “make 5 beats.”

• Tip: Ask yourself: Why does this goal matter right now?

⏱️ Achievable – Set yourself up for success.

• Goals should challenge you but still be realistic.

• “Increasing my range by 4 semi-tones without using falsetto" isn't viable in a 13-week timeframe

• But “2 semi-tones in 13 weeks” might be within reach.

• Tip: Consider your time, energy, and resources.

📅 Time-bound – Put a clock on it.

• Deadlines create urgency and momentum.

• “Someday” goals often fade away.

• Instead of “I’ll write a book,” try “I’ll finish the first draft by December 1st.”

• Tip: Even small timeframes (daily/weekly) can keep you accountable.

It's important to pause and reflect. Here are some key questions to ask yourself.

🔍 What is happening now?

• Think about what, who, when, how, and how often you are doing what you are doing.

• What steps have you already taken?

📊 What is the effect or result?

• How has it brought you closer to your goal, or highlighted challenges?

💡 What options do you have?

• List all possible actions to move forward.

✔️ Is the list comprehensive?

• Could anything be missing? Which option feels best?

🧰 What resources will you need?

• Time, tools, knowledge, or support.

⚠️ What might stop you?

• Think realistically about obstacles.

🚀 How can you overcome these barriers?

• Plan strategies in advance to stay on track.

💡 Final Tip: Reflecting on your current reality creates a strong foundation for SMART goals. Without this step, goals risk being unclear or unrealistic.

❓ Question: Which of these reflective questions would give you the most insight if you asked it today?

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📧 Email: studentsuccess@lccm.ac.uk