People tell you to dream big, but how do you make your big dreams a reality? By breaking them down. Break your big goals down into smaller goals, and then break those small goals down into even smaller, achievable steps. That’s what it means to make your goals SMART: specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and timely.

While not all goals require money, many do. When you’re thinking about going to college, finding a place to live, getting trained in something you’re interested in—that all takes cash. Part of the SMART goal-setting process is considering many financial factors. Make sure that you’re also thinking about the money you need to reach your goals and giving yourself the opportunity to earn it. Research the costs connected with each step. Include that information when you’re writing out your SMART goal so that you can anticipate expenses.


Set a SMART goal.

How does money factor into the SMART goal-setting process?
A
You need to know if achieving your goal will require money.
B
You need a plan to earn or acquire the money needed to achieve your goal.
C
You need to know the costs associated with the steps of achieving your goal.
D
All of the above.