Which comes first? Goals or actions?

​That was a trick question! The best way is to have goals and actions together! In fact, there is a great acronym and simple process for setting goals, called “SMART” goals which stands for:
S = Specific
M = Measurable
A = Action oriented
R = Realistic
T = Timely

​In this process, ACTION is part of the goal setting, which is the best way to do it.
 
A few examples to make it practical and real:

	​S Specific	​M Measurable	A Action oriented	​R Realistic	​T Timed
Eating	Eat more fruit and veggies	Have at least 5 servings of fruit or veggies every day	When doing the shopping, ensure purchase enough fruit and vegetables	Add 2 servings of fruit or veggie to meals (if  already eating 3 fruit/ veggie)	Every day
Exercise	Take up exercise	​Go for a 20 minute walk 3 times a week. Go to the gym 2 times a week	​Take walking shoes/ runners to work 3 times a week. Pack gym bag night before (2 times a week)	​Walk 3 times a week (Mon, Wed, Fri) at lunch time. Go to the gym 2 times a week (Tues & Thurs)  after work	​5 times a week do at least 20 minutes exercise

​I love this quotation by Joel Barker:

​However I would modify it slightly and include the word “goal” with “vision”:
"Vision/ Goal without action is just a dream, action without vision/ goal just passes the time, and vision/ goal with action can change the world."