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Planning Realistic and Relevant Goals

The fourth S.M.A.R.T. principle is realistic and relevant. Today you will learn how to set realistic and relevant goals.

Too often, people plan unrealistic goals because they don't understand the process of goal setting. It gets even foggier when we add the faith element because we think that just adding prayer to our goals will automatically make them come to pass. 

As you plan your goals, ask yourself if they are in line with your Christian values and based on something that is possible based on your current lifestyle? What may be realistic for someone else may open the door to sin for you if it takes you to a level of extreme. What may be right for the rest of the world may not be the right thing for you as a believer. That's why it's so important to pray and seek God's wisdom when planning your year.

Here are examples of unrealistic goals:

I will only eat 800 calories per day until I lose the weight.

I will never eat sweets again.

I will go to the gym every day for 2 hours.

Here are examples of realistic goals:

I will eat 1500 calories per day.

I will walk for 30 minutes per day.

I will eat healthy 80% of the time.

Here are examples of an irrelevant goal:

I will have my stomach stapled, so I stop overeating.

I will continue to follow the latest diet.

Here are examples of relevant goals:

I will weigh what God wants me to weigh by learning what His plan for my health is.

I will create a healthy meal plan based on what my body needs and choose an exercise that makes my body feel good.

Action Steps

Consider this when planning your goals to make sure they are realistic:

• Will your goals draw you closer to your identity in Christ instead of just focusing on the number on the scale?
• Will your goals emphasize body, soul, and spirit instead of just focusing on cutting calories?
• Is your goal Spirit-led or self-driven?
• Is your goal transforming you daily and teaching you submission to God?
• Is your goal moving you to action? If your goal is unrealistic, you will continue to procrastinate and sabotage yourself?

If you can answer these 5 questions affirmatively, then you can feel confident that you have set realistic goals.

Reflect

1. Think about your weight releasing goal for this year. Does it meet the criteria for a realistic goal?

2. What changes do you need to make for it to be more realistic?

3. What challenges have you had in the past with setting realistic goals?

Prayer

"Dear God, I pray this year that I will be more purposeful and intentional as I take care of my body. Because your Spirit is alive and active in me, I am able to set goals that are realistic and relevant—they are in line with your best for me. What a great feeling to finally know that there is a better way to approach my health. All of the unrealistic and irrelevant ways are behind me, and now your light shines brightly before me, guiding me every step of the way. Show me how you want me to accomplish and achieve my goals as I start this New Year. I pray for wisdom and strength. In Jesus' name. Amen."