Goals

Get SMART

A realistic goal is SMART (in more ways than one)

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-related

Specific - Smart goals are specific enough to suggest action.
Example: Save enough money to get a refrigerator, not just save money.

Measurable - You need to know when you have achieved your goal, or how close you are.
Example: A refrigerator costs $600, and you have $300 already saved.

Goals which aren't measurable, like "I'd like to have more money," are much harder to achieve - and you don't even know when you get there!

Attainable - The steps toward reaching your goal need to be reasonable and possible.
Example: I know I can save enough money each week to arrive at my goal within one year.

Relevant - The goal needs to make common sense. You don't want to struggle or work toward a goal that doesn't fit your need.
Example: You don't need to save money for 18 pairs of shoes.

Time-related - Set a definite target date.
Example: The repairman says my refrigerator won't last another year.