Mastering SMART Goals for a Sober New Year with Jess Steitzer
A SMART goal stands for specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound. I think that you are going to be a SMART goal-setting master. I'm so proud of you.
As the New Year rolls around, many of us are eager to set goals that will make a real difference in our lives. But how often do we find ourselves falling short just weeks in? Jess Steitzer, a sober mom and RRCA running coach, dives into this common struggle in this episode of Decidedly Dry.
She breaks down the SMART goals framework—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound—and shows how it can be a game-changer for those aiming for a sober start to the year. Jess's approach is both practical and encouraging. She emphasizes the importance of setting specific goals rather than vague aspirations. For instance, instead of saying, 'I want to drink less,' you might set a goal to stay alcohol-free for the entire month of January.
Jess also highlights the value of measuring your progress. Whether it's through apps like HabitBull, journals, or calendars, tracking your achievements can keep you motivated and on course. One key takeaway from Jess's discussion is the need to be realistic with your goals. Setting unattainable targets can lead to frustration and a sense of failure. Instead, Jess suggests breaking down your goals into manageable steps and rewarding yourself for milestones along the way.
A mid-month treat, like a pedicure, can be a great incentive to keep going. Jess wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to join her January wellness challenge, which includes daily wellness tasks and the Dry January commitment. She also teases upcoming tips for prioritizing goals in future episodes. If you're looking to kick off the New Year with a clear and achievable plan for sobriety, this episode is a must-listen.
Jess's insights on SMART goals offer a roadmap to success that feels both attainable and inspiring.