Take the SMART Approach to Self-Care
We all have goals we want to accomplish, but the way to reach those goals isn’t always clear. The SMART approach can help set us on the path to success. SMART stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based. Think of the SMART method as a road map, leading you from milestone to milestone. By breaking down goals into specific, measurable, and attainable steps, you are more likely to stay focused and maintain your commitment.
Applying the SMART approach to self-care is an excellent way to stay focused, relieve stress, and establish a strong foundation of security and self-worth.
First pick a specific goal, such as dedicating 15-30 minutes a day to self-care. Next, make the specific goal measurable by dedicating a specific time slot on your calendar to a self-care activity; for example, committing 15-30 minutes every Monday to doing the weekly Healthy Monday Refresh practice.
After setting a specific goal and determining how to measure it, ask yourself, is committing 15-30 minutes every day achievable? If not, try to make the goal more realistic, by adjusting it to fit your schedule. Lastly, establish a greater time-frame for achieving your specific goal. In this case, we recommend aiming for 24 weeks of self-care, but you can modify the duration to better fit your lifestyle.
- Specific: Dedicate 15-30 minutes a day to self-care
- Measurable: Every Monday see what the Healthy Monday Refresh recommended weekly practice is and schedule 15-30 minutes into your calendar daily
- Achievable: Ask yourself if scheduling 15 minutes every day is possible
- Realistic: Check-in and determine if you have time to do this. Is it realistic?
- Timebound: Aim for 24 weeks but adjust as necessary
The SMART approach can be applied to anything, from fitness goals to professional successes. The process is flexible and can be customized to fit your specific requirements or schedule. This Monday, get SMART about self-care and experience all the benefits firsthand.