Addicaid - Addiction Recovery Support
We can take specific actions to improve our current state of mind that contribute to improving our positive mental health. We want to ensure that as we go about our daily activities we do it in a way that promotes positive affect and a positive mental state. Setting goals is a good way to target particular good outcomes.
Setting goals allows you to track your progress and achievements while keeping your mind focused on a particular result. While, goal setting itself is not difficult, accomplishing them is. There is a methodology to goal setting that ensures you follow through.
There are two main types of goals, outcome goals and performance goals.
Outcome goals: focuses on the result or end engagement, achieved through strategies or tasks performed, doesn’t control all variables for the desired outcome.
Performance goals: achieves heavier performance, focuses on individual behavior changes or tasks performed, can be achieved irrespective of others.
It is important to acknowledge what type of goal you are setting. Having a better understanding of your goal will ease any complications. In addition, it will draw your focus to the area that needs it most.
Next, we can use the acronym S.M.A.R.T to help you set our goal effectively. S.M.A.R.T stands for specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic and time-bound. By making a goal that meets all of the above criteria it will be easier to manage and attain.
Specific: A specific goal includes answering all of these questions: who, what, why, where and how. Once you have the details worked out your goal will be more clear and targeted. Define it as much as possible.
Measurable: A measurable goal involves establishing criteria in order to measure progress. If you can measure your progress, you can understand your level of productivity. Level of productively is important to maintaining a schedule and timeline.
Attainable: An attainable goal identifies things that you are able to achieve. Make sure the goal is not far out of reach nor below standard performance. You want something that pushes a previous goal, but isn’t out of touch from reality.
Realistic: A realistic goal is in line with other goals you may have. If you are working on addiction recovery, your goal should represent a small achievement in your bigger plan for recovery. Realistic goals reflect your long-term goals and desires. They highlight what you consider important to achieve.
Timely: A timely goal includes a time limit. This will establish urgency and prompt you to improve your time management. Making a schedule for your efforts will keep you on track.
After you have decided on a specific goal that meets the criteria of S.M.A.R.T. you’re on your way to success! Remember to stick to your schedule, track your progress, and most importantly understand how this goal will improve your life for the better!
