SMART Goals Worksheet

Use this worksheet to craft a clear, actionable recovery goal using the SMART framework. Respond to each prompt and then combine your answers into a full SMART goal at the end.

1. Specific

What exactly do you want to achieve? Describe your goal in concrete terms.

2. Measurable

How will you track your progress or know when the goal is accomplished? List your metrics or indicators.

3. Achievable

What steps or resources will help make this goal realistic and attainable? Consider supports, skills, or tools you need.

4. Relevant

Why is this goal important to your recovery journey? Explain how it aligns with your long-term objectives.

5. Time-Bound

What is your deadline? Specify a target date or timeframe for completing this goal.

6. My Complete SMART Goal

Using your answers above, write one clear statement that includes all SMART components.

Goal-Setting Scenario Cards

Cut these cards apart and distribute one to each participant. Each card describes a recovery-related situation—use it to craft a SMART goal on your worksheet.

Scenario 1: Consistent Meeting Attendance

You’ve missed several peer-support meetings over the past month due to inconsistent scheduling. You want to build regular attendance to strengthen your support network.

Scenario 2: Daily Reflection Journaling

You struggle to stay mindful of cravings and triggers. You’d like to develop a habit of journaling about your thoughts and emotions each day.

Scenario 3: Healthy Physical Activity

You feel low energy and want to improve your mood. You aim to incorporate exercise into your routine, even if it’s just a short walk.

Scenario 4: Balanced Nutrition

Your eating habits have been erratic, affecting your wellbeing. You intend to plan and eat balanced meals to support recovery.

Scenario 5: Job Search Progress

Unemployment is causing stress. You wish to take concrete steps toward finding work, such as preparing a resume and applying for jobs.

Scenario 6: Rebuilding Family Connections

You’ve been distant from family during treatment. You want to re-establish communication and support through regular check-ins.

Scenario 7: Mindfulness Practice

Stressful moments lead to cravings. You plan to practice a relaxation technique (like deep breathing or meditation) when you feel triggered.

Scenario 8: Peer Mentoring Engagement

You’ve benefited from peer mentors and want to give back by volunteering to mentor someone new in recovery.

Use the details in your card to identify the 5 SMART components, then write your complete goal in section 6 of the SMART Goals Worksheet. Good luck!

SMART Goals Overview

Setting clear, well-defined goals is a powerful tool in any recovery journey. Goals give you direction, boost motivation, and help you see tangible progress. The SMART framework breaks down goal-setting into five simple components to ensure your objectives are realistic and achievable. Read on to learn what each letter stands for and why it matters in your recovery.

Why SMART Goals Matter

• Provides clarity: You know exactly what you’re working toward.

• Increases accountability: Measurable targets keep you on track.

• Builds confidence: Small wins reinforce positive behavior.

• Enhances focus: Time-bound objectives prevent procrastination.

By using the SMART framework, you can move from vague intentions to concrete actions that support your long-term wellness.

The SMART Framework

1. Specific

A specific goal answers the questions Who? What? Where? When? and Why? Instead of saying “I want to feel better,” a specific recovery goal might be: “Attend three peer-support meetings each week.” This clarity reduces confusion and guides your daily actions.

2. Measurable

Measurable goals include clear criteria for tracking progress. You might track meeting attendance on a calendar or journal the number of days you’ve practiced a coping skill. Metrics help you celebrate milestones and adjust your approach if needed.

3. Achievable

Your goal should challenge you, yet remain realistic based on your current resources and circumstances. Ask yourself: Do I have the time, skills, and support to reach this goal? If you’re new to exercise, starting with a 10-minute walk three times per week is more attainable than training for a marathon immediately.

4. Relevant

A relevant goal aligns with your overall recovery objectives and personal values. Consider why this goal matters to you today and how it supports your long-term vision—whether that’s improved health, stronger relationships, or greater stability.

5. Time-Bound

Adding a deadline creates a sense of urgency and prevents goals from lingering indefinitely. Specify a timeframe, like “Within the next four weeks” or “By the end of the month.” A clear endpoint motivates consistent effort and helps you plan intermediate steps.

Applying SMART Goals in Recovery

By combining all five components, you craft a goal that is clear, trackable, realistic, aligned with your recovery journey, and anchored by a deadline. For example:

“I will attend three peer-support meetings each week for the next four weeks and mark each meeting date on my calendar to strengthen my support network.”

Next, use the SMART Goals Worksheet to practice creating your own SMART goals based on real recovery scenarios. Together with scenario cards and group discussion prompts, you’ll turn insight into action and build momentum on your path to lasting change.