SMART Goals are Measurable // Luke 14:28

This week we are considering SMART goals as we kick off the 2024. Yesterday we explored how our goals need to be specific. Today, I want us to think about goals that are measurable, which is the ‘M’ in our SMART acrostic.

Jesus taught about how we need to count the cost of something before we embark on a journey. He spoke specifically about planning in advance of a project. The specific example he gave was budgeting the cost of a building project so you don’t lay the foundation and then run out of money. He went on to comment about how people who know your plans will see you only get a little bit done before having to quit. That brings about feelings of failure, guilt, and shame, doesn’t it?

Isn’t this so true about how many of us tackle New Year’s resolutions? We have good intentions, but that’s about it. If we want to accomplish something specific, then the next step is determining what is involved. This also calls us back to reflect upon why our goals need to be specific, because otherwise, how will we know when they’re met? Making measurable goals also helps us to figure out the resources needed to make them happen. I typically think about three things we need to consider when it comes to our resources: time, energy, and money. Budgeting for these will ensure we have what we need to begin, enough to see us through to completion, and to ensure progress along the way despite the inevitable setbacks we’ll encounter. This is why our goals need to be specific and measurable.

What cost do you need to count as you begin your goals for 2024? When will you know when you reach them? Then, how will you budget your resources along the way? Make your goals measurable so you can account for what you need for every step of the journey.