SMART Goals are Attainable // Proverbs 16:3

This week we are exploring SMART goals. So far, we have looked at how our goals need to be specific and measurable. Today, we encounter the ‘A’ in our acrostic, which stands for, attainable.

The primary question to ask when considering attainable goals is are the results we seek genuinely achievable? We must take into account things like our ability, availability, and the goal’s attainability. No matter how specific and measurable a goal might be, if it cannot genuinely be achieved, then it isn’t reasonable. I like to do a little running every now and then. I once set a goal to complete a 5k in 30 minutes or less. I trained and was able to achieve it; in fact, I have been able to beat that time if the conditions are right. If, however, I wanted to set a goal to run a 5k in 5 minutes, well, that might be attainable in my car, but certainly not on foot. Sure, that might seem a bit hyperbolic, but I think it gets to the point.

One of the best known Bible verses about achieving our goals is Proverbs 16:3, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Committing our plans to the Lord means we take them in prayer to Him and test them against the truth. This, my friends, is not about making plans and asking God to bless them, but it’s about ensuring the goals we set are in line with God’s plan for us and the world.

So, as you seek to set a goal, be specific and ensure it’s measurable. Then, if those other criteria are met, make sure it is attainable, but it also in line with the laws of nature and nature’s God.