Does it ever seem like you’re wandering through your recovery, unsure of which direction to head in? It’s a feeling many people experience, especially after completing rehab and returning to their daily lives. SMART goals —which are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely — can help you create a clear and focused plan for your future.
The Blueprint to Your Recovery
SMART goals work because they provide clarity and focus, helping people define what they want to accomplish and how. Rather than thinking of a vague ambition, like “I want a career,” SMART goals can break this down into a more specific and achievable vision.
A Closer Look at SMART Goals
SPECIFIC: If your ambition is to have a career, place that goal under a microscope and decide what type of job or position you want. If you’re creative and interested in marketing, your goal might become “I want to be a graphic designer.” Next, you should determine how you’ll achieve this, what the deadline is, and why this goal is important to you.
MEASURABLE: Develop a quantifiable way to track your progress. If you already have a background in marketing or graphic design, you might measure how many resumes you’ve sent out and how your networking efforts are going. If you’re starting from square one, your measurable goals might involve taking classes or pursuing certifications.
ATTAINABLE: Your goals should be attainable. You’re probably not going to land a position as the CEO of a big company if you’re just starting out in your career. However, becoming a graphic designer is entirely within reach. Your focus right now should be on setting yourself up for success. Goals that are too big or lofty might discourage you from making progress.
RELEVANT: Your goals should also be relevant and serve you in some way. Think about the bigger picture. It might be cool to learn how to produce music while working toward becoming a graphic designer, but it’s probably not very relevant or helpful right now.
TIMELY: Your goal — and each actionable step that gets you closer to your goal — should have a specific timeline for completion. This helps motivate you and keeps you accountable.
Embrace Your Progress
Setting sober SMART goals is more than just a task — it’s a commitment to your future self. As you navigate your recovery, remember that each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. Celebrate your successes, learn from the setbacks and adjust your goals as you evolve. The path of recovery is not linear, and that’s okay. What matters most is your resilience, your willingness to grow and the support you gather along the way.
Your journey is unique, and so are your goals. By setting sober SMART goals, you equip yourself with a powerful tool to navigate the challenges of recovery. Remember, you’re not just surviving; you’re thriving, one SMART goal at a time.
For more information on how Mount Sinai Wellness Center can support your journey to wellness, feel free to contact us at (800) 353-4673 to schedule an appointment.
