Rowan X. Adler Books
Chapter 3 Chapter 5

Chapter 4: Defining Your Goals


Because a dream without a plan is just a wish (and we’re here to do more than wish).

Alright, you’ve got your vision. It’s inspiring, it’s exciting, and it’s uniquely you. But let’s be real: if you don’t define your goals, that vision is going to stay a daydream. This chapter is where we turn your big, bold aspirations into goals you can actually achieve—no magic wands or genie lamps required.

Introduction to SMART Goals

Here’s the deal: goals need structure. Vague goals like “I want to be happier” or “I want to make more money” are about as helpful as a map with no directions. Enter the mighty SMART Goal framework—a simple, genius method to make your goals crystal clear and ridiculously doable.

SMART stands for:

  • Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish? (No vague “I want to get fit”—try “I want to run a 5K.”)

  • Measurable: How will you know when you’ve achieved it? (Running 5 kilometers is measurable. Congrats, you nailed it!)

  • Achievable: Is this realistic? (Training for a marathon in 3 weeks? Maybe dial it back to a 5K.)

  • Relevant: Does this goal align with your vision and values? (If “health” is one of your values, running fits perfectly.)

  • Time-bound: When will you achieve this by? (Deadlines are your friend, not your enemy.)

Example of a SMART Goal:
“I will run a 5K in the next 12 weeks by training three times a week using a beginner’s running plan.”
Boom. Clear, actionable, and SMART.

Exercise: Break Down a Big Goal into Smaller Steps

Big goals can feel overwhelming. It’s like staring at Mount Everest and wondering how on earth you’re going to climb it. (Answer: one step at a time.)

Let’s break it down:

  1. Write down your big goal.

  2. Example: “I want to write a book.”

  3. Divide it into smaller, manageable tasks.

  4. Outline the chapters.

  5. Set a daily word count (e.g., 500 words a day).

  6. Dedicate time to editing and revising.

  7. Assign deadlines to each task.

  8. Chapter 1 outline by next Monday.

  9. Write the first 5,000 words by the end of the month.

Smaller steps = less stress = more progress. It’s math, probably.

Reflection: How Will Achieving These Goals Improve Your Life?

Here’s the fun part: imagining the ripple effect of your success. Close your eyes (again) and think about how accomplishing your goals will transform your life.

Ask yourself:

  • What will this achievement feel like? (Will you be proud? Relieved? Overjoyed?)

  • What positive changes will it bring? (Will you have more confidence? Better health? A reason to celebrate with cake?)

  • How will it impact the people around you? (Will your family be inspired? Will your dog get more walks because you’re running now?)

Write it down.
When things get tough—and they will—it’s this vision of your “why” that’ll keep you motivated.

Final Thoughts: Goals Are Your Roadmap

Defining your goals is like plugging your destination into a GPS. Without them, you’ll just wander aimlessly and probably run out of snacks. With them, you’ve got direction, purpose, and a plan to get where you want to go.

So, are you ready to turn your dreams into reality? Great! Because in the next chapter, we’re diving into the habits that will help you crush these goals like a boss. Let’s do this!
Chapter 5