Start Strong with SMART Goals and SWIM Priorities

How Progress, Accountability, and the Right Support Lead to Success

Start Where You Are: Progress Over Perfection

The start of a new year often feels like a race. We’re expected to hit the ground running with ambitious goals and perfect plans. But let me share something personal—my own start to 2025 was far from perfect.

The holidays were a whirlwind of activity—busy, chaotic, and capped off with a bad cold that delayed this very newsletter. And you know what? That’s okay. Starting late is still starting.

This experience reminded me that progress doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s about showing up, taking small steps, and moving forward—even if it’s at your own pace. Let this year be about embracing imperfection, focusing on consistency, and giving yourself the grace to begin again whenever you need to.

Who’s Holding You Accountable?

Writing down goals is easy. Sticking to them? That’s the hard part.

We’ve all been there—starting strong, then losing momentum as life gets busy. The inner chatter doesn’t help either:

• “You’ve been busy; it’s okay to skip today.”

• “You’ll start fresh tomorrow.”

• “This is harder than I thought—maybe next year.”

Accountability is the secret ingredient to staying on track. It’s not just about tracking progress; it’s about having someone or something to remind you why you started in the first place. Programs like WeightWatchers thrive because they create a system of regular check-ins, encouragement, and responsibility.

Whether it’s a trusted partner, a coach, or an app, accountability bridges the gap between intention and action. Looking for support? Boost can connect you with the tools, resources, and guidance to help you succeed.

Setting SMART Goals for Success

Turning aspirations into accomplishments requires a clear plan. That’s where the SMART framework comes in. It helps break goals into actionable steps so you can focus, build momentum, and see measurable progress. Here’s how it works:

• Specific: Define your goal clearly.

• Measurable: Set metrics to track progress.

• Achievable: Make sure the goal is realistic.

• Relevant: Align the goal with broader objectives.

• Time-Bound: Establish a deadline.

Example: Build a Professional Network

• Specific: Connect with three professionals weekly through events, virtual coffee chats, and follow-up emails.

• Measurable: Establish 12 new connections per month.

• Achievable: Start with one event and one connection weekly.

• Relevant: Grow your business through referrals and partnerships.

• Time-Bound: Build 36 new connections by March 31, 2025.

Breaking goals into SMART components ensures focus, accountability, and measurable progress. Ready to turn your goals into actionable plans? Boost can help.

Introducing the SWIM Framework

While SMART helps you set goals, SWIM helps you organize and prioritize tasks, ensuring you spend your time where it’s needed most while delegating the rest. SWIM stands for:

• S: Should Do – Tasks only you can or should handle.

• W: Won’t Do – Tasks that drain your energy or motivation.

• I: Isn’t for You – Tasks beyond your current skills, knowledge, or time.

• M: Moveable – Tasks better done by someone else—delegate these.

The SWIM framework empowers you to take control of your time and energy. By categorizing your tasks, you can reduce overwhelm, focus on priorities, and delegate effectively.

“Stay afloat with SWIM: Focus on what matters most and delegate the rest.”

Practical Tips for Finding Help

Support isn’t a luxury—it’s a strategy for success. Here’s where to start:

• Professional Networks: Tap into LinkedIn, Alignable, or industry groups to connect with experts.

• Referrals: Ask colleagues or friends for recommendations.

• Online Platforms: Try Upwork or Fiverr for specialized support.

• Local Groups: Join meetups or business networks for in-person collaboration. In our area groups like: Executive Exchange of Central Florida, ONE, and Orlando Business Network are well established options.

Not sure where to begin? Boost can guide you through the process and connect you with tailored solutions.

Help in Your Comfort Zone

Asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you smart, efficient, and proactive. Whether you prefer video calls, phone chats, or face-to-face conversations, support is out there. Every great success story starts with a single step, and Boost is here to help you take it. Let’s make 2025 your most successful year yet—starting today.