In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with to-do lists, deadlines, and responsibilities, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters to us. Often, we find ourselves pursuing goals that feel out of alignment with our values, intuition, and vision for the future. This misalignment can leave us feeling inauthentic, incongruent, and even disheartened. But what if there was a better way to approach goal setting that keeps us moving forward and ensures that our goals are deeply connected to who we are?
Welcome to the SIMPLE way of goal setting
SIMPLE Safe, Integrated Meaningful Personal Legitimate Energising
The Foundation: Vision, Values, and Intuition
Before diving into the SIMPLE framework, it’s essential to understand where meaningful goals come from.
In my previous posts, I have highlighted some critical ingredients to help you discern what truly matters to you. These include:
Having a vision for the future: What does your ideal life look like?
Determining your core values: What principles guide your decisions and actions?
Listening to your intuition: What is your inner voice telling you?
Observing with your eyes, not just your ears: What patterns, opportunities, and circumstances are showing up in your life?
When these elements align, they create a robust foundation for setting goals that resonate with your heart and mind. They provide clarity, meaning, and even hope—qualities that help you stay the course and navigate life’s uncertainties with resolve to succeed.
SMART Specific Measurable Achievable Relevant Time-bound
Moving Beyond SMART Goals
You may already be familiar with the popular SMART goal framework, which emphasises Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. SMART goals are effective, but I believe an additional layer is essential to making them truly transformative.
I’ve developed the SIMPLE Goal Framework, which builds on the SMART approach by ensuring that your vision, values, and intuition deeply inform your goals. SIMPLE goals don’t just “check the boxes”; they connect—cognitively, emotionally, and tangibly—to what matters most to you.
The SIMPLE Goal Framework
Let’s break down what SIMPLE goals look like:
Safe
Your goals should be clear and well-defined, leaving no room for ambiguity. However, they need to stretch you without causing you to feel unsafe physically or mentally.
Integrated
Typically, we have more than one goal at any given time (often relating to different aspects of our lives). The concept of integrated goals relates to the fact that the goals you set shouldn’t be at odds with each other.
Meaningful
Your goals should resonate deeply with your values and purpose. If a goal doesn’t feel meaningful, it won’t sustain you. It is imperative that your goal inspires you to continue and causes you to feel that you are moving towards what you want and not away from what you do not want.
Personal
Every goal should have a clear “why” behind it. What’s the bigger picture or impact does this goal contribute to? This means no external factor makes you set a specific goal; it is your personal choice to act on the stated goal.
Legitimate
Ensure each goal is within your capacity to enable you to achieve it. You may need to enhance a skill or ability, but it is within your ability to manage.
Energising
Your goals should inspire and energise you, not drain you. Goals that create excitement and optimism about the future are more likely to be achieved.
By incorporating these elements, SIMPLE goals support you in achieving tangible outcomes and ensure that the journey is fulfilling and aligned with your authentic self.
Why SIMPLE + SMART = Success
The beauty of the SIMPLE framework is that it complements the SMART approach. Combining the two ensures that your goals are practical, actionable, meaningful, and aligned. This dual-layered approach provides structure and heart, helping you stay motivated and focused despite challenges.
Ready to Develop Your Hope Reserves?
If you’ve been stuck or unsure of your next steps, it’s time to step back and revisit your vision, values, and intuition. These guiding principles are the key to setting SIMPLE goals that move you forward and give you hope for the future.
Whether you’re looking to boost your hope reserves, set meaningful goals, or align your actions with your authentic self, I’m here to help. Together, we can create a roadmap that’s as unique as you are.
Let’s take the next step toward an exciting and fulfilling future. Contact me at carol@strategicachievementcoaching.com.au to start your journey today.
Goal setting is more than ticking items off a list—it’s about creating a life that feels aligned, purposeful, and hopeful. By combining the SIMPLE and SMART frameworks, you’re setting yourself up for success in achieving your goals and living a life that reflects your most authentic self.
So, what’s your next SIMPLE goal?
Ready to transform your approach to goal setting? Let’s make it SIMPLE.
