Which is a client-centered SMART goal example for increasing daily steps?

Which is a client-centered SMART goal example for increasing daily steps?

• A. Walk 5,000 steps daily.
• B. Walk 7,500 steps on five days this week, starting with today, and track with a pedometer.
• C. Lose weight by next month.
• D. Exercise regularly.

Answer: (B)

Setting goals with a specific, measurable plan and a clear deadline helps clients know exactly what to do and how to track progress. The best choice provides a concrete daily step target, uses a pedometer to quantify progress, defines a near-term timeframe (this week) starting now, and ties the aim to increasing daily activity in a realistic way. This makes the goal Specific (the exact activity), Measurable (steps counted with a pedometer), Achievable (a realistic increase for daily activity), Relevant (increasing daily movement), and Time-bound (within the current week, starting today). It stays client-centered by aligning with the client’s immediate routine and offering a simple way to monitor progress. The other options lack one or more of these elements: they either set a target without a concrete short-term plan and tracking, are vague about the outcome and timeframe, or are too general to guide action.

Setting goals with a specific, measurable plan and a clear deadline helps clients know exactly what to do and how to track progress. The best choice provides a concrete daily step target, uses a pedometer to quantify progress, defines a near-term timeframe (this week) starting now, and ties the aim to increasing daily activity in a realistic way. This makes the goal Specific (the exact activity), Measurable (steps counted with a pedometer), Achievable (a realistic increase for daily activity), Relevant (increasing daily movement), and Time-bound (within the current week, starting today). It stays client-centered by aligning with the client’s immediate routine and offering a simple way to monitor progress. The other options lack one or more of these elements: they either set a target without a concrete short-term plan and tracking, are vague about the outcome and timeframe, or are too general to guide action.