I've been meaning to write about this subject for such a long time. I mentioned how creating smart goals can help us to recover better and move us forward to live our very best life.
I've told people on my video podcast that I will share what I know smart goals and how I have created smart goals before and after the stroke and how I continue to set goals to move forward to living my best life.
I really don't know how many years ago I first learn about setting SMART goals. I'm pretty sure I learned about them in graduate school when I was getting a Masters of Teaching degree from Providence College in the 1980's. Yeah, that long ago. I'm sure that most people have heard about SMART goals. I'm not sharing anything new or groundbreaking, but I truly believe that this is the best way to set goals, especially during the early stages of the aphasia journey. Once I go through the steps, I might be clearer why I say this.
Goals need to be:
S - specific. Clearly define what you want. Identify resources needed to achieve this goal.
M - measurable. Attach a number to the goal so progress can be tracked
A - attainable. make sure goal is realistic and attainable
R - relevant. Why is this goal important to you?
T - time bound. Set a deadline for completing. Break down goal into more manageble tasks if the goal is big. Build an action plan.
In addition, to make the goal tangible, be sure to write it down on paper or draw about it. It also helps if you share the goal with someone else; this makes it more real and you can ask them to help you be accountable.
Let's write some fictional examples to help us understand better.
A Health and wellness goal - to lose weight
S - I want to lose weight
M - I want to lose 10 pounds
A - I want to lose 10 pounds (EX 1- I weigh 200 lb. If I exercise and watch my diet, I can lose 10 lb. attainable.)
R - I want to lose 10 pounds because doing so will make me healthier and possibly extend my life and reduce my stroke risk.
T - I want to lose 10 pounds by June 2025 (by my grandson's graduation) in order to be healthier and possibly extend my life and reduce my stroke risk.
Then, plan out specific steps in order to achieve this goal. Remember to write everthing down if possible. And share your goal with someone who can support you.
A Language and Communication goal - to tell my story to other people with aphasia
S - I want to share my story of living with aphasia
M - I want to write my story down.
A - I am ready to share my story of living with aphasia and now have the ability to do so (with help from my SLP or family)
R - I know that by sharing my story I can help other people who may be experiencing similar challenges and they will know they aren't alone.
T - I want to share my story on Aphasia Moments by May when I celebrate the 6th anniversary of the stroke which resulted in aphasia
Then, plan out specific steps and contact Cheryl to see how this can be possible.
I truly believe this way of creating goals is beneficial and can help us actually achieve these goals.
If you have any comments or examples of how you set goals, please leave a comment.
Until next time......
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