We have all heard the advice, “Don’t bite off more than you can chew.” This adage is particularly true when it comes to managing our health. In a clinical setting, patients often express feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of major lifestyle changes. However, the most effective path to better health is often paved with small, strategic steps rather than giant leaps.If the idea of setting structured goals feels daunting, rest assured that the process can be simple. To turn a vague ambition into a tangible result, we recommend using the SMART framework. This method organizes your ideas into a format that promotes success and reduces anxiety.
Here is how you can make your goals SMART:
• S = Specific: Define exactly what you want to achieve.
• M = Measurable: Determine how you will track your progress.
• A = Attainable: Ensure the goal is realistic for your lifestyle to guarantee success.
• R = Relevant: Understand how this goal supports your overall health journey.
• T = Timely: Set a deadline for when you need to achieve the result.
Putting Theory into Practice
Seeing that February is Heart Health Month, let’s look at the common health concern, elevated blood pressure, to see how a SMART Goal would work to improve it.
Imagine a patient who visits the office with a blood pressure reading of 157/84. While this may not require immediate medication, it certainly requires attention to prevent future cardiovascular issues. Rather than simply saying, “I will lower my blood pressure,” a SMART approach creates a clear roadmap:
• Specific: “My goal is to lower my systolic (top) number to 130 and my diastolic (bottom) number to 80.”
• Measurable: “I will take my blood pressure at home every day at 10:00 AM and log it in a journal to review with my provider.”
• Attainable: “I will achieve this by replacing table salt with citrus when cooking, limiting alcohol consumption, taking a 30-minute walk after dinner, and reducing daily caffeine.”
• Relevant: “Achieving this will minimize the need for medication and significantly reduce my risk of a heart event.”
• Timely: “I aim to achieve these numbers by November 19th,” (tying the goal to a specific event or date often increases motivation).
Your Health Journey
The beauty of SMART goals is that they are entirely customizable to your needs. You can take a large, intimidating objective and break it down into bite-sized, manageable pieces.
Never underestimate the power of small changes. Your health and wellness journey is a marathon, not a sprint. By setting realistic goals and tracking your progress, you empower yourself to succeed. If you are in need of providers, either primary care or cardiology, to help you identify goals that are right for you.
Courtney Neal, APRN, FNP-C
