SMART!
S in SMART
Specific
What is a trigger?
A situation, thought, feeling, or event that contributes to anxiety, low mood, or distress.
"I want to feel better."
Not smart.
Which obstacle sounds like: "If I can't do it perfectly, I shouldn't do it at all."
Perfectionism
Our personal road map
A goal should be realistic as possible.
Achieveable
Why is identifying triggers important?
It helps identify what needs to change and what goals to set.
"I will call one friend each week for the next month."
Smart
What is one solution when a goal feels overwhelming?
Breaking it down into smaller steps.
What represents the route on the journey?
the skills, techniques, and actions you practice
Which SMART component ensures the goal matters to your recovery?
Relevant
True or False: Triggers are always external events.
False
"I want to be more social." *What SMART component is missing?*
Measurable & Time Limited
If progress is slow, what reminder may help?
Improvement is gradual and small changes still count.
In recovery, what represents the destination?
Goals
Which part of SMART asks, "How will I know I've achieved it?"
Measurable
Give one example of an internal trigger.
A thought, memory, emotion, physical sensation, or self-criticism?
I will use my "worry" time I set aside for 20 minutes daily, for the next two weeks.
Why should we identify obstacles before they happen?
So we can plan solutions and stay on track when challenges arise.
If a goal is not being completed consistently, what should you consider?
adjusting or modifying the goal
"I would like to learn how to better control my anxiety so that I do not end up spiraling. I would like to set aside 20 minutes a day to worry. Throughout that time I will write about my thoughts then refocus, and worry about them at this allocated time moving forward. I would like to achieve this by the end of the month." Name all SMART elements included.
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Limited.
How can understanding triggers support recovery?
Helps us to prepare, use coping skills, and make intentional changes
Why are vague goals harder to achieve?
It is difficult to measure progress (M) and know what actions to take (S).
Name two common obstacles that can interfere with reaching goals.
Low motivation, anxiety, fear of failure, being busy, feeling unworthy or discouraged
If a goal isn't working, you've failed (T/F)
False!