Let’s be real for a second. You didn’t start your business just to be busy all the time, stuck in a loop of never-ending tasks, barely able to come up for air. You started it because you wanted freedom, flexibility, and the power to build something on your own terms. But if you’re anything like most entrepreneurs I work with, that freedom feels like a far-off dream because you’re drowning in busywork and constantly putting out fires.

And the goals you do set, they feel more like wishful thinking than anything strategic. That’s where SMART Goals come in—but not the way you’ve been taught. Because let’s face it, the traditional model isn’t built for women entrepreneurs who are building legacies, not just businesses. You need a version of SMART that helps you cut through the noise, stay focused, and create real progress without burning out. That’s exactly what I’m breaking down for you here.

I remember when I first started my business. I was full of passion and drive, but no real direction. There was a ton of advice out there on how to market and sell, but not much on how to strategically grow a business that aligns with your life. So I chased everything. Every idea. Every tactic. Every “must-have” tool. And I ended up exhausted. Sound familiar? That’s when I realized I needed a plan—a simple, flexible strategy built around SMART Goals that actually made sense for where I was in life, not just what looked good on paper.

The truth is, when you set goals without strategy, you end up building someone else’s version of success. I want you to build yours. So here’s the twist: SMART doesn’t just stand for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. My version flips the script.

Specific still matters. You’ve got to define exactly what you want. But I also want you to anchor your goal in mindset. Choose affirmations that keep you grounded and focused when things get tough.

The M, that stands for Mind Your Business. Seriously, stop comparing your progress to what you see on social media! You don’t know what’s happening behind the scenes in someone else’s business, and your energy is too valuable to waste on comparison. Focus on your lane.

The A, that’s for Appropriate. Ask yourself: is this the right goal for right now? Not every great idea is meant for this season. Maybe you’re juggling family, travel, or caregiving. Your goals need to reflect your reality, not ignore it.

R is for Realistic because hustle culture will have you believing you can do it all, all the time. But you can’t. And you shouldn’t. Realistic doesn’t mean small. It means aligned.

And the T is for treat yourself. You’re not a machine. Celebrate progress. Build in rewards. Write your wins on sticky notes and post them where you can see them. It’s not just about the big goal—it’s about the journey and the growth along the way.

This version of SMART Goals is how you create a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. And when you combine that with strategic planning every 90 days, you create a rhythm that keeps you moving without losing your mind. I tell my clients this all the time—your business cannot be in a busy season at the same time your life is. You need to plan with intention, or you’ll end up overwhelmed and off track. That’s why I include goal-setting worksheets and time-blocking tools inside The MY-T Society. Because I’ve seen what happens when women get clear on what they want and build systems to support it—they take back their time, increase their income, and stop chasing every shiny new idea.

So let me ask you: what’s one SMART Goal you can set today that actually fits your life right now? Not what sounds good. Not what everyone else is doing. But what matters to you—in this season. Write it down. Then ask yourself: is it specific? Is it your business? Is it appropriate for this moment? Is it realistic? And how will you treat yourself when you make progress? If it checks those boxes, you’re on the right track.

And here’s the last thing I’ll say—don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need everything figured out before you get started. Strategy doesn’t mean perfection. It means clarity. It means intention. It means creating space in your business so you can live your life now, not just someday. If you’re tired of spinning your wheels and ready to build with purpose, this is your moment. You don’t need more hustle. You need a better plan. So go set that SMART Goal, one that fits your life, your values, and your vision. You’ve got this. And if you want support making it all come together, you know where to find me.