13 SMART Goals Examples for Time Management

We all know the feeling of having a million things on our to-do list and no idea where to start. Knowing how to create SMART goals is essential in time management because it helps us become more productive.

In this post, we’ll look at SMART goals examples to make the most of your day. Get ready to understand the structure of setting effective goals and take control of your time.

What is a SMART Goal?

The SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-based) framework will enable you to establish practical goals for time management.

Still need more clarification? Let’s dive deeper into each SMART element:

Specific

Pursuing specific goals is the key to long-term success when managing your time wisely. You can unlock a world of potential outcomes with an ambitious yet achievable action plan. Focusing on the task will be easier if you have a clear vision of what needs accomplishing.

Measurable

Setting tangible targets allows you to monitor progress and determine whether you’re on the path to success. Measurement allows you to analyze how to make improvements where necessary. Without measurable goals, it can be challenging for individuals to reach their desired outcome.

Attainable

When developing your goals, remember to be as realistic as possible. You could chunk your goal into smaller steps and focus on them individually. That way, each step will appear more manageable, helping you stay energized.

Relevant

Creating goals that align with your core values will inspire you to reach your ideal destination. You’ll be able to push on since your values will guide you along the journey.

Time-Based

With a solid timeline, you can stay on track and keep sight of your time management goals. After all, achieving success requires dedication and hard work maintained over time.

13 SMART Goals Examples for Time Management

Here are 13 examples of SMART goals for effective time management:

1. Prioritize Tasks Effectively

SMART Goal: To utilize my time more efficiently, I will prioritize tasks based on important deadlines and the level of urgency. I’ll work on the most important tasks first and put a plan in place for managing less critical tasks.

• Specific: This statement outlines what you need to do (prioritize tasks) and how often you need to do it (for every task).
• Measurable: You could keep track of the tasks you’ve managed effectively and how much time it took to complete them.
• Attainable: Prioritizing tasks based on deadlines and urgency is definitely possible.
• Relevant: This goal directly contributes to better time management skills.
• Time-based: You should consider this goal as an ongoing effort.

2. Establish Deadlines

SMART Goal: For two weeks, I will set realistic deadlines for all projects and tasks I have been assigned to ensure that nothing is left half-done or incomplete. I’ll also hold myself accountable for meeting deadlines by tracking my progress and following up with any issues or potential delays.

• Specific: This goal is concise and clear as it describes how to be better organized in terms of time management.
• Measurable: You can measure success by how many projects and tasks they’ve set realistic deadlines for within two weeks.
• Attainable: The goal is doable if you plan ahead and use the proper tools.
• Relevant: This is focused on being better organized with time management.
• Time-based: The SMART goal must be achieved within two weeks.

3. Delegate Responsibilities

SMART Goal: I aim to delegate all low-priority tasks on my calendar to the appropriate team members by the end of this month. I plan to be more efficient by learning to recognize what can and should be delegated to others.

• Specific: You have precise actions available—delegate all low-priority tasks.
• Measurable: You’ll know you have achieved the goal when all low-priority tasks are delegated.
• Attainable: Assuming that you have the right team members and are familiar with delegating, this is a reasonable goal.
• Relevant: This is a great way to develop better time management and organizational skills.
• Time-based: You should anticipate goal completion within this month.

4. Eliminate Distractions

SMART Goal: I’ll eliminate distractions from my work environment by the end of three weeks. This includes closing down unnecessary tabs, turning off notifications for social media, and keeping my workspace clean.

• Specific: This is specific because the person will close down unnecessary tabs, turn off notifications for social media, and keep their workspace clean.
• Measurable: Ensure that all distractions from the work environment are removed.
• Attainable: The SMART statement is feasible if you take the time to stay focused on your tasks.
• Relevant: Eliminating distractions leads to improved time management, which helps boost productivity and effectiveness.
• Time-based: Goal attainment is expected by the end of three weeks.

5. Maximize Productivity Tools

SMART Goal: I want to create a list of time management tools to help organize and track my tasks. I’ll try different tools to find the right ones for my needs. Within 6 months, I will have identified and implemented the most effective tools to boost my productivity.

• Specific: The aim is to create and implement a list of time management tools.
• Measurable: Identify the different time management tools, evaluate each one, and decide on the most effective ones.
• Attainable: The individual has enough time to create a list of tools and select the ones that work for them.
• Relevant: Organizing tasks and tracking progress are essential for completing assignments on time.
• Time-based: The goal must be met within 6 months to be successful.

6. Follow Your Schedule

SMART Goal: I’ll strive to use a planner to create my weekly schedule and stick to it. This way, I can better manage my time by determining when to focus on specific tasks and reducing the risk of overloading myself.

• Specific: The goal clearly states what will be done to manage time successfully.
• Measurable: You could measure the consistency with which you follow your weekly schedule.
• Attainable: This is possible because it is realistic to create and stick to a schedule.
• Relevant: Realize that having a consistent schedule is crucial for time management.
• Time-based: There is no specified timeline, but you should consider this goal as ongoing.

7. Take Breaks to Recharge

SMART Goal: I will take an average of two 15-minute breaks daily to recharge and reset my brain at least four days a week. I’ll use this time to stretch my legs and get up from my desk to be more productive when I return to work.

• Specific: This goal is about taking two 15-minute breaks every day.
• Measurable: Make sure you get up from your desk for an average of two 15-minute breaks daily.
• Attainable: You should know that taking breaks for yourself isn’t too excessive.
• Relevant: Making sure you take regular breaks during your workday can help improve your productivity.
• Time-based: It is implied the goal is ongoing, so you must pursue it regularly.

8. Find an Accountability Partner

SMART Goal: I will identify and connect with an accountability partner who can help me stay on track with my goals. We’ll meet once a week to review progress and discuss any challenges I may be facing.

• Specific: The individual aims to find an accountability partner to help them stay on track with their objectives.
• Measurable: You’ll meet once a week to review progress and discuss any challenges you face.
• Attainable: This is feasible because you can actively reach out and find an accountability partner.
• Relevant: The statement is suitable because it encourages you to complete your tasks promptly.
• Time-based: You will review progress with your partner every single week.

9. Assign Time Blocks for Activities

SMART Goal: For the 9 months ahead, I’ll assign specific blocks of time for activities that require extra focus, such as research or project planning. These blocks will be scheduled in advance, allowing me to remain productive without getting overwhelmed.

• Specific: This SMART goal is explicit because it outlines the action that needs to be taken.
• Measurable: You can evaluate your progress by noting your scheduled time blocks.
• Attainable: This is possible because it does not require much effort.
• Relevant: Time blocking is an effective way to stay productive and organized.
• Time-based: Reaching this particular goal is expected after 9 months.

10. Create To-Do Lists

SMART Goal: I will create to-do lists daily to ensure I make the most of my time. Each list should include any tasks I must complete before the end of the day and any long-term goals.

• Specific: The goal is well-defined, detailing the objective and how it will be accomplished.
• Measurable: You could measure your progress by looking at the tasks you have completed daily.
• Attainable: Creating and following to-do lists can be achieved with some time management strategies.
• Relevant: Creating to-do lists will help you be productive and efficient with your time.
• Time-based: You should ideally make a to-do list every day.

11. Reward Yourself

SMART Goal: I will reward myself when I complete a task within the allotted time. This could be anything from a treat, time off, or a special gift for myself. Regardless of the reward, it should motivate me to prioritize my time and be more productive.

• Specific: The individual knows they want to reward themselves for accomplishing a task.
• Measurable: Ensure you are rewarded for completing tasks within the allotted time.
• Attainable: This is doable if you take the necessary steps to prioritize your time and be productive.
• Relevant: Rewarding yourself is an appropriate way to motivate yourself to manage time better.
• Time-based: This goal is ongoing; the reward should occur every time you complete the task within the allotted time.

12. Learn to Say No

SMART Goal: Within the following three months, I’ll learn to say ‘no’ when a task or project is unrealistic or too difficult. I can make sure I’m using my time and energy most productively.

• Specific: The goal is clear regarding what you need to do (learn how to say ‘no’) and the time frame (three months).
• Measurable: You can count the times you’ve said ‘no’ to a task or project.
• Attainable: Learning to say no is achievable and can help you manage your time better.
• Relevant: Declining tasks or projects that are unrealistic or too difficult take the pressure off while keeping you productive.
• Time-based: Goal completion is expected within three months.

13. Automate Redundant Tasks

SMART Goal: To streamline my workflow and free up more time for more important tasks, I will set up automated processes for any repetitive or redundant tasks. I hope to finish this in two months to save more time in the long run.

• Specific: The goal is easy to understand, outlining precisely the objective and deadline.
• Measurable: By automating processes, it should be possible to quantify the amount of time saved.
• Attainable: This goal is possible since automated processes are readily available.
• Relevant: This is pertinent to time management because it will streamline workflow and free up more time.
• Time-based: Two months are required to accomplish the statement.

Final Thoughts

SMART goals provide an excellent framework for any time management plan. The clarity and structure of these goals allow you to get the most out of your day-to-day activities.

You’ll be able to stay hyper-focused and always move in the right direction. And feel free to experiment with different goal formats until something works for you; after all, everyone’s needs and preferences are unique.