Goal Setting

Would you like to set some goals related to healthy eating, meal planning or eating as a family? Then consider writing them down, using our Goals Handout.

When you write down your goals, you have a better chance of achieving them.

Here’s an easy way to set goals and see if you’re meeting them. It’s called the SMART approach.

SMART stands for:

Specific
Measurable
Attainable/Achievable
Relevant
Time bound

As you write your goal(s), keep these questions in mind:

• Specific:  What exactly are you going to do?
• Be specific about what you want to accomplish.
• Measurable: Can you measure it?
  Use a number (three times a week) or a date (by Friday) with your goal so you’ll know when you’ve accomplished it.
• Attainable/Achievable: Can you get it done?
  Don’t make your goal too big or difficult.
• Relevant:  Will this goal help me accomplish something good?
  Think about goals that are important to you and will help you.
• Time bound:   When will I accomplish this goal?
  Put a date (by Friday) or timeline (by next month) on your goal. That will help you have a deadline for meeting it.

Sample Smart Goals

Here are some sample goals using the SMART approach:

• I will try a new vegetable each week for a month, starting (insert the date).
• I will be physically active for 10 minutes a day, every day this week.
• I will make a grocery list before going grocery shopping for three weeks in a row, starting (insert the date).