Set an Effective Goal

Goals help set priorities and point your life in the direction you want it to go. They are most meaningful when they connect to your values. The Goal Setting tool can help build clear and effective goals. 

It’s easy to lose sight of your long-term goals when you’re focused on getting through the day. But setting meaningful goals, especially ones that reflect your values, can help give your recovery direction, structure, and purpose.

Goals give you something to work toward. They help you prioritize your time, take action, and build confidence.

When your life feels out of balance (see the Lifestyle Balance Wheel), goals can help you focus on the areas that need more attention. And when you're rebuilding your life, even small goals can have a big impact.

What Makes a Goal Effective?

SMART Recovery recommends using SMART goals—not because we invented the acronym, but because it works. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Specific – The goal is clear and well-defined.
• Measurable – You can track your progress.
• Agreeable – You’re willing to commit to it (not something you feel forced into).
• Realistic – It’s doable, given your current resources and energy.
• Time-bound – It has a deadline or timeframe.

Examples

Not quite SMART:
“Eat better.”
Too vague. What does “better” mean? How will you know if you’ve done it?

SMART version:
“Eat more heart-healthy foods to lower my cholesterol below 200 mg/dL within 6 months.”

Not quite SMART:
“Spend more time with my kids.”

SMART version:
“Show up on time for all visitation sessions with my kids for the next 3 months.”

Step 1: Write your goal

Try writing a goal that fits the SMART criteria.

Goal:

________________________________________________________________

Check each box if your goal meets the following:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Agreeable
• Realistic
• Time-bound

Step 2: Break it into steps

Write out small, clear tasks that will help you move toward your goal. These should be things you can check off.

Tasks to reach my goal:

1. ________________________________________________________________

2. ________________________________________________________________

3. ________________________________________________________________

    

Where to Start

If you’re not sure where to focus, go back to your Lifestyle Balance Wheel. Which areas scored lowest? Choose one and start there.

You might start with a short-term goal (a few days or weeks) and build from there. Some common goal areas include:

• Finances: Save money, pay off a bill, or set up a budget
• Relationships: Make time for someone, resolve a conflict, or set a boundary
• Career: Explore options, build a skill, or update a resume
• Physical health: Sleep more, walk regularly, or prep meals
• Passions: Try a hobby, return to something you used to enjoy
• Volunteering or connection: Join a group, help someone, or contribute to your community

• What area of life do I most want to grow in right now?
• Does my goal feel meaningful and connected to my values?
• What might get in the way—and how could I handle it?
• Who could support me or help me stay accountable?
• What will success look or feel like?