Setting Goals

Goals turn intention into action. They give shape to effort, especially during times of crisis or uncertainty. While in prison, I found this tactic of setting goals essential. Confinement removes many choices, but it does not remove the ability to plan.

When you set goals, you take another step toward living as if you are the CEO of your life. Instead of reacting to circumstances, you begin managing them.

The SMART Framework

I was still incarcerated when I first learned about the concept of SMART goals. George T. Doran introduced this framework in a 1981 article titled "There's a S.M.A.R.T. Way to Write Management's Goals and Objectives." The SMART acronym stands for:

• Specific – clearly defined
• Measurable – trackable
• Achievable – realistic given circumstances
• Relevant – aligned with your definition of success
• Time-bound – connected to a deadline

Why Goals Matter in Prison

From my studies, I anticipated that most people would face one of five likely outcomes after release:

• Unemployment
• Underemployment
• Homelessness
• Problems with the law
• Success

To be successful, people would need to overcome the feeling of being disoriented in prison. When I read about SMART goals, I found a strategy to counter those forces. They shrink overwhelming timelines into manageable steps. They allow a person to measure progress even when freedom feels far away.

Goals Change by Stage

Just as success changes by stage, goals must change as well. During confinement, it helps to think in three time horizons:

• Short-term goals (30 to 90 days): building routines, completing courses, improving health, journaling consistently
• Mid-term goals (1 to 3 years): earning credentials, teaching others, building documented contributions
• Long-term goals (5 to 10 years): career objectives, financial stability, leadership roles, service beyond prison

A person wouldn't need to accomplish everything at once. We should strive to pursue excellence, going after goals that fit the stage we're in now.

My Goals While Incarcerated

Although I could not control my release date, I could control how I worked toward my plan. SMART goals gave structure to each part of my strategy:

• Education: I set a goal to earn at least one university degree within ten years.
• Contribution: I set a goal to become a published author within ten years.
• Support Network: I set a goal to identify and build relationships with ten mentors within ten years.

Those goals were specific. They were measurable. They were realistic given my circumstances. Most importantly, they gave me direction during years when uncertainty could have led to stagnation.