Setting realistic rehab goals

Good goals keep rehab motivating and measurable. Breaking a big hope into small, specific steps makes progress visible.

Make goals SMART

• Specific: say exactly what you will do.
• Measurable: know when it is done.
• Achievable: stretch a little, not a lot.
• Relevant and Time-bound: it matters, with a deadline.

Start small

• Break big goals into weekly steps.
• Aim for consistency over intensity.
• Adjust goals as you progress.

Stay motivated

• Write goals down where you’ll see them.
• Track and celebrate small wins.
• Share goals with your team or family.

Handle setbacks

• Expect ups and downs.
• Shrink the goal rather than quitting.
• Focus on the next small step.

How this site helps

You don’t have to do everything at once. Pick one small idea from above and try it this week.

• Turn a goal into a daily habit with Practice.
• See the evidence behind these ideas in Research.
• Practise the underlying skill with a calm game.

Remember: this is general education, not medical advice. Your clinician knows your situation best.