SMART is an acronym used to help fine-tune self-care goals.  There are variations as far as what different groups say it stands for, but one of the more common versions is

• Specific
• Measurable
• Attainable
• Relevant
• Time-Bound.  SMART goals can be helpful to include into an Integrative Health plan.  To write one, begin by focusing on a goal that is important to a Veteran.  This goal should tie in to what really matters to them and closely rates to their Mission, Aspiration, Purpose (MAP).  

After you have a general goal in mind, apply the principles of SMART goals to focus in on how to reach it.  These are featured in the table below.  As you help someone set a goal, remember the following:

• It is better to break a general goal down into smaller goals that are easier to reach, in order to increase the odds of success.
• The more detail the better. “I will exercise more” is very vague.  “Starting on Monday, July 1, I will walk in the mall for 20 minutes and keep doing that every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday” is more detailed and incorporates all of the SMART elements.
• Make sure both you and the patient agree (at least to some degree) about the goal.  Shared goal setting is a powerful process.  Explain your reasoning.
• Don’t forget to follow up later to see how it is going with reaching the goal.  If they are stalled out, is it best to change goals, or simplify it somehow?