In our last blog, we talked about how to set a SMART Goal—one that’s Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. But once you’ve written your SMART Goal, what happens next?
That’s where backplanning comes in.
Backplanning is the step-by-step process of working backward from your goal to figure out exactly what needs to happen—and when. It’s one of the most effective ways to take your goal from idea to action.
Let’s say your SMART Goal is:
“I will complete my food handler certification by August 15 so I can start applying for prep cook jobs by September 1.”
That’s a solid, clear SMART goal. Now it’s time to map out how you’ll get there.
You start with your deadline—August 15—and ask yourself:
“What has to happen before that?”
Here’s what a simple backplan might look like:
August 15 – Pass the food handler certification test
August 10 – Take the test
August 5 – Review practice questions
August 1 – Watch training videos and complete the course
July 25 – Sign up for the course
Today – Find a course provider and add it to your calendar
Now you have a clear, time-based plan to reach your goal—and you know exactly what to do this week.
Backplanning is effective because it flips the question. Instead of asking,
“What should I do today?”
You’re asking,
“What needs to be done by the end—and what comes right before that?”
This shift keeps you focused and forward-moving. It also:
Breaks big goals into small steps
Helps you manage your time
Reduces stress by creating a clear path
Builds momentum as you check off each task
In short, it gives you a roadmap—and that makes it easier to follow through.
CDP participant Jasmine had a SMART Goal:
“I will apply for a shift lead role at Union Kitchen’s café in one month.”
Here’s how she backplanned it:
Week 4 – Submit application
Week 3 – Update resume and write cover letter
Week 2 – Ask her current manager for feedback and suggestions
Week 1 – Take on a new shift responsibility (like opening or inventory)
By following her plan, Jasmine stayed focused and made steady progress each week. She didn’t have to guess what to do next—she had a roadmap that connected her daily actions to her long-term goal.
Go back to the SMART Goal you wrote last week and walk it backward. What’s the final step? What happens right before that? And before that?
Write it all out. Assign dates. And start checking things off.
Progress doesn’t have to be overwhelming. One SMART Goal and one clear backplan is all you need to move forward—one step at a time.