How to Grow and Win Using the S.M.A.R.T.E.R. Framework
- Apr 25, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: May 8, 2025
Written by Edir Terry, MMA & Fitness Coach
Edir Terry, Pro MMA fighter, top Miami coach, and founder of Belico MMA & Fitness, blends martial arts, fitness, and spirituality to inspire transformation. Entrepreneur, future author of OCTF, and documentary creator, Edir empowers others to unlock their best selves through discipline, resilience, and growth.
In life, we all have dreams: Maybe it’s buying your dream car, starting your own business, getting healthy, or becoming someone your younger self would be proud of. But without clarity and focus, dreams can fade. That’s where the S.M.A.R.T.E.R. framework comes in as a simple, powerful tool that helps turn your dreams into reality. The smart rule by George T. Doran.
Let me walk you through exactly how I used it to go after one of my goals. My story is your guide.
Start with a clear vision
Think of your goal like a destination on a map. If you don’t know where you’re going, how will you ever get there?
1. S: Specific
What exactly do you want? Be precise. The more detailed, the better. Don't just say, "I want a car." Say, “I want a brand-new, white Dodge Charger as my second muscle car.”
Why it matters: Specific goals create laser focus. When you see your dream clearly, your mind starts to find ways to make it real. It's no longer a wish; it becomes a mission.
Leadership mindset tip: Leaders know what they want and why. Be bold. Declare your dream.
2. M: Measurable
How will you track your progress? I decided to save $100–$300 per week for 12 months. That means by the end of the year, I’d have between $4,800–$14,400.
Why it matters: Measurement shows momentum. You’ll see your progress. You’ll know if you’re winning or if you need to adjust.
Self-growth lesson: What you can measure, you can manage and improve.
3. A: Actionable
What actions will you take? I committed to working on my side hustle 2–3 hours a day, 5 days a week. That’s 10–15 extra hours weekly to learn, earn, and grow.
Why it matters: Goals without action are just daydreams. But when you take real steps, you start to grow into the person you're becoming.
No-quitting tip: Action builds confidence. Keep showing up even when it’s hard.
4. R: Relatable
Why does this goal matter to you? This car isn’t just a car. It represents hard work, reward, and progress. I saw it as a symbol of all I’ve overcome.
Why it matters: Your goal should match your values and your story. If it matters deeply to you, you’ll fight for it, even when things get tough.
Simple truth: If your “why” is strong, your “how” becomes possible.
5. T: Time-bound
What’s your deadline? I gave myself until December 31st at 11:59 PM to save $9,000–$11,000 for my car.
Why it matters: Deadlines bring urgency. They help you act now, not “someday.”
Leadership habit: Respect your time. Put a date on your goals. Make them real.
6. E: Evaluate
How often will you check your progress? I decided to review my savings and actions daily, or at least 3 times a week.
Why it matters: Growth doesn’t come from guessing. Regular check-ins keep you on track, motivated, and sharp.
Self-awareness skill: Great leaders reflect. Be honest with yourself. Adjust. Keep going.
7. R: Reward
How will you celebrate your wins? Once I hit my goal, I promised myself a reward, something I’ve dreamed of but always put off. Maybe it’s a road trip in my new car or something meaningful just for me.
Why it matters: Celebrating creates positive energy. You deserve to feel proud. Every win, big or small, is fuel for the next step.
Positivity tip: You’re not just working hard, you’re becoming someone greater. Celebrate it.
Your turn: Create your S.M.A.R.T.E.R. plan
What is your Specific goal?
How will you Measure your progress?
What Actions will you take every week?
Why is this goal Relatable to your life?
What is your Time-bound deadline?
How will you evaluate your progress?
What will you do to reward yourself?
Write it down. Start today. Don’t wait for perfection.
Final thoughts: The no-quit mindset
The S.M.A.R.T.E.R. system works, but only if you do. Life will test you. You will have days where it feels like nothing’s working. But remember:
Growth lives in the uncomfortable zone.
Quitting is easy, but that’s not who you are.
Every small step is a victory.
Be kind to yourself. Be consistent. Be relentless.
You’re not just chasing goals. You’re building the best version of yourself.
So keep going. Keep growing.
The best is yet to come.
Read more from Edir Terry
Edir Terry, MMA & Fitness Coach
Edir Terry is a dedicated martial artist and fitness professional with a passion for transforming lives. Using the philosophy of mind, body, and spirit rooted in martial arts, Edir has trained over 300+ amateur and professional fighters and impacted 5,000+ individuals, helping them achieve personal goals in school, work, and life. His mission, "Make the best version of yourself," drives his work, bringing joy and fulfillment as he inspires success and growth. Edir's approach empowers students to unlock their full potential and embrace lifelong change.
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