ANDREW WARD, PT, DPT & CSCS.
One of the traditional goal-setting guidelines is called “SMART goals.” Using this framework, goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. This framework is great for setting a series of specific goals that can be checked off in order; for example, “I will improve my barbell deadlift from 85 to 100 pounds by February 1st, 2020.”
This goal is objective, has a definite timeline, and can be rated on a pass/fail-type grading system. The SMART goal setting framework puts you on a timeline and makes you accountable for specific and measurable objectives.
As we enter a new year (and a new decade!), it’s important to take a look at what large-scale changes we would like to see in our lives. It can be difficult to come up with these types of meaningful goals using a SMART format; this is where PIE goals come into play! PIE goals are Purposeful, Impactful, and Enjoyable. PIE goals lack specific details, but give shape to the purpose behind your goal; for example, “In the next year I want to make a habit out of lifting and I want to involve my friends and coworkers in the process.”
This is an overarching goal that sets a direction for the year. When creating your big goal, try to identify the P, I, and E in that goal. If your goal has purpose, is impactful to you or others, and is actually enjoyable, it is a goal worth pursuing. Then you can write specific and objective SMART goals to build towards your PIE goal.
Here is one of mine.
PIE:
In the next year, I want to make a habit out of lifting and I want to involve my friends and coworkers in the process.
SMART:
- I will lift 2x/week for 2 months.
- I will find a lifting partner and make a schedule to lift with them a minimum of 1x/month.
- I will improve my barbell back squat to 135lbs by January 15th, 2020.
My challenge for you in the new year is to decide on one PIE goal and then to create two to three SMART sub-goals to help you get there! Clearly-defined, meaningful goals are the secret to your success!