Making New Year's resolutions is a tradition for many individuals and families. Many creatives find themselves making resolutions for creating new projects, trying different mediums, and getting organized. In years past we might find ourselves starting strong and falling flat by February. This year can be different. Setting SMART goals makes all the difference. 

What is a SMART goal? Have you ever felt that you spend a lot of time working very hard but accomplishing very little? It is an action  plan, a road map to help us reach our goals. SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Achievable , Relevant, Time Bound.

Specific

It is important to be specific about what goal you are trying to reach. Your goal should be clear and specific, otherwise you won't be able to focus your efforts or feel truly motivated to achieve it. “Be more organized” is too broad of a goal. Think about who and what the goal involves. Try making your goal more specific. “I want to organize my craft room so that I will feel less stressed and be able to create freely.”

Measurable

It's important to have measurable goals. This allows you to track your progress and stay motivated. Awareness of progress helps you to stay focused and feel the excitement of getting closer to achieving your goal. What is the measurable about your goal to get organized in the craft room? Does getting organized mean keeping your desk clutter free? Or does it mean a total craft room organization makeover?

Achievable

Is the goal realistic? Is it reasonable to do a full craft room organization while working full time, going to school, taking kids to appointments and school in one month? Probably not. Look at what is on your plate and make adjustments. Try taking bite sized chunks out of organizing every month. Based on what you have going on, extend the timeline to allow for breathing room. 

Relevant

Is the goal of organizationing the craft room important to you? Organization can help you feel less stressed and help you create freely. It can allow you to find supplies quickly without slowing down a project. 

Time Bound.

Every goal needs a target date, so that you have a deadline to focus on and something to work toward. Setting a time frame helps to balance everyday tasks with your longer-term goals.

The new year is time for reflection. We find ourselves reflecting on the past year and hoping for a bright future. Thinking about the past can help us plan for the future. What things from the past do we want to change? Setting SMART goals helps us succeed. Next week we will continue discussing organization for your craft room.