Remember SMART goals? Those fancier goals that we always talk about? There are plenty of reasons that our debt counselors recommend them. SMART goals help get things done with a purpose. So let’s do a SMART goals review to help move your financial goals forward.
Pay off debt by establishing SMART goals.
SMART Goals Review & Financial Planning
Here is a quick SMART goals review!
SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely.
- Specific: I will pay off $5,000 in unsecured consumer debt.
- Measurable: I will apply at least $100 each month to that debt.
- Achievable: I can achieve this if I cut back on my cable, mobile phone service, and additional discretionary spending.
- Relevant/Realistic: I need to reduce my debt to apply more money to savings and future goals.
- Timely: I will pay off this debt in 30 months.
You can break down your goals even further by categorizing them as either short-term, mid-term, or long-term. Having an accurate estimate of time is essential to successfully completing a goal. It can be motivating to know that you will pay off the debt quickly or to work harder.
- Short-term Goal: Less than 1 year
- Mid-term Goal: 2-5 years
- Long-term Goal: More than 5 years
So why are SMART goals important to financial planning? Basically, you have to be the boss of your money- don’t let your money boss you around. Telling your money what to do is critical to achieving your financial goals.
If you want to retire early, you need your money to work quickly and probably be invested in the stock market as soon and as often as possible. If you need to save money for a down payment, then you have to know how much money you will need and by when. Want to eliminate all your debt? You need a plan to beat the interest!
There are plenty of goals that deserve planning and attention. Put your best foot forward by making them SMART goals. Use this SMART goals review any time you need a refresher.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
