How to Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals and Crush It in 2025

Whether you’re gearing up for a race, launching a business, or just trying to show up as your best self every day, having a clear plan is key. One of the tools I use in both my training and my business is a simple yet powerful method called S.M.A.R.T. Goals. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure about how to turn your dreams into action, this framework can give you the structure and clarity to make it happen.

What Are S.M.A.R.T. Goals? S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym that stands for:

Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time-bound

This approach turns vague ideas into clear, actionable steps, something I’ve found incredibly helpful whether I’m prepping for competition, building my brand, or staying consistent with my workouts.

Let’s Dive Into Each One

Specific - Vague goals like “get fit” or “do better at work” don’t give you a clear target. Instead, get laser-focused. For example, rather than “I want to run more,” try:

“I will complete a 10K trail race in Montana this summer.”
It answers the who, what, where, and why—and that clarity keeps you grounded.

Measurable - If you can’t measure it, you can’t track progress. I track my runs using pace, distance, and frequency. Maybe for you, it’s:

“Grow my email list by 500 subscribers,”
or “Read 12 books this year.”

These metrics let you celebrate milestones along the way—and that celebration matters.

Achievable - Dream big, but make sure your goals are realistic based on your current schedule, skills, and resources. If you’ve never run before, don’t jump into training for a marathon in a month. Instead:

“Train for a 10K over 12 weeks.”
That’s challenging and doable. It builds confidence and momentum.

Relevant - Your goal should mean something to you. Ask yourself:

“Does this align with my values or bigger vision?”
When your goals match your passions—whether that’s strength, adventure, or connection—they’re easier to stick with.

Time-bound - Without a deadline, goals become “someday” ideas. Set a finish line. For example:

“Launch my online program by August 1”
or “Run a 5K by June 30.”
Deadlines create urgency—and urgency creates results.

Why I Use S.M.A.R.T. Goals 

Whether it’s training for a competition, expanding my Gaux Train programs, or helping others start their fitness journey—S.M.A.R.T. Goals keep me focused. They help me break down big ideas into bite-sized steps I can take action on every single day.

Two of my goals this year?

Business: “Launch my new Gaux Train Program and Just Gaux Workouts by July 1st and sign 100 people in the first 30 days, by promoting my program organically via my social media pages and newsletters and sharing it at my in person Workshops" 

Personal: "Complete a Half Marathon race on October 12, 2025, by training 3 running days a week and finish it in 1 hr and 40 minutes or under. 
They are clear and trackable. It fits my lifestyle and passions. And it gives me a roadmap I can actually follow.

How You Can Set Your Own S.M.A.R.T. Goals - Here’s how to get started:

1. Dream Big, Then Get Specific:
   Instead of “get stronger,” try: “Deadlift 200 lbs by October 1.”

2. Make It Measurable:
   Track progress weekly. Set mini benchmarks. Celebrate small wins.

3. Check if It’s Achievable:
   Be honest. Do you have the time, tools, or support you need?

4. Keep It Relevant:
   Does it excite you? Will it move the needle forward in your life?

5. Set a Deadline:
   Add it to your calendar. Create checkpoints. Hold yourself accountable.

Tips to Stick With It

• Write it down – keep your goals visible (I keep mine in my training log).

• Break it into milestones – build momentum with small wins.

• Track your progress – use a journal or app to reflect weekly.

• Be flexible – adjust your plan, not your goal. Life happens.

• Celebrate your wins – reward your consistency, not just the outcome.

6 months Remain For 2025

You don’t need to wait for the perfect moment. You just need a plan, and the willingness to take that first step. S.M.A.R.T. Goals are one of the best tools I know to turn your “I wish” into “I did.”

So grab a notebook, reflect on what matters most to you, and start creating your own S.M.A.R.T. Goals. And when you’re ready, share them with me! I’d love to hear what you’re working on. Tag me on Instagram or drop a comment on the blog.

Let’s keep pushing, keep growing, and as always, Just Gaux. 

P.S. Want weekly motivation, mindset tools, and training tips? Join my newsletter and get the good stuff sent straight to your inbox or grab my 31-Day Challenge here.