Setting goals is a crucial part of recovery. After all, if you are not working toward something that is meaningful to you, what’s the point? Maybe you are striving toward finding a meaningful relationship, getting healthier, or getting a job that ignites your passion. Whatever your goals are, make sure they are “S.M.A.R.T.”:

Specific—Be as specific as possible when setting goals. For example, “run a marathon” vs. “improve my health.”

Measurable—If a goal is not measurable, it is hard to tell whether or not you have achieved it. “Lose ten pounds” is a clearer goal than “lose weight.”

Agreeable—If you do not actually want to achieve the goal, it will be extremely hard to stay motivated. Work on setting goals that fit in with your values and what you truly want for yourself, rather than what you feel you should do.

Realistic—If your goals are not realistic, you are setting yourself up for failure and disappointment. Only set goals that can realistically be achieved.

Time-bound—Put a time frame on your goals so that you know how long you want to spend working on them.