If you’ve committed to making 2024 your year to break the chains of drug addiction, congratulations! We are so proud of you! Choosing recovery is the absolute best decision you will ever make, not just for yourself, but also for the people closest to you. Giving up drugs or alcohol is a battle, but if you take some time to set clear goals, you will set yourself up for a much greater likelihood of success.
You may have heard the discouraging statistics related to New Year’s resolutions. According to a survey by Forbes Health, the average resolution lasts less than four months. Many people give up within the first 30 days. In fact, failure is so common that the second Friday in January has been unofficially dubbed “Quitter’s Day.” However, one of the reasons resolutions break down is that they are often not backed up with actionable steps. This is where goal-setting comes into play.
SMART Goals for Success
The SMART goal method provides a simple framework for defining and managing goals. This technique can be applied to any area of life, including your recovery journey. The acronym SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.
Specific
A goal like “get clean in 2024” is much too generic. How are you going to do it? Who else needs to be involved to make it happen? Spell out the details of what you want to achieve. For example, “find and enroll in a Christ-centered recovery program” is a clear, actionable goal.
Measurable
Find a quantifiable way to track your goal. When you can see your progress, you will be motivated to keep moving forward. What milestones do you need to meet along the way? Deciding to meet with an accountability partner monthly is a measurable goal.
Achievable
Your goal should be realistic. You should not be afraid to challenge yourself, but recognize your limitations and strive for something you can attain. Even small changes can have a big impact!
Relevant
Ask yourself why this goal matters. It is YOUR goal and no one else’s, so it should be applicable to your current season and circumstances. Focus on the best step you can take right now to improve your life.
Time-Bound
SMART goals have timelines to hold you accountable. Decide when you will start and how long it should take to achieve your goal. Map out some mini-goals and don’t stress if you have to make some adjustments along the way.
Examples of SMART Recovery Goals
- Ask a trusted friend this week to keep you accountable.
- Read the Bible for 10 minutes a day starting this weekend.
- Develop a new hobby within the next month.
- Attend one recovery session a week for 3 months.
- Commit to a 12-month residential recovery program.
If you need help on the road to recovery, we invite you to explore our faith-based programs at 7 Springs Ministries. Not only will we help you set goals, but we will walk alongside you and offer the support you need to achieve those goals and step into a life of freedom.
