Achieving Goals: Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals

The basic goals in your "GPS S.M.A.R.T. Goals" are intended to drive you in the direction of your overall performance. To be successful, you first have to make sure that your target is set correctly.

Take the time to establish written strategies and set them down on paper. This is the first step in ensuring that you have the greatest chance of success. It's like configuring your GPS with the correct address.

The aims of S.M.A.R.T. must be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-centric.

Specific

In as much detail as possible, build your target. By concentrating on the five W's, it can be written with accuracy, consistency, and specifics:

• who?

• what?

• where?

• when?

• why?

Measurable

Establish basic goal assessment metrics so you can control your progress and remain motivated.

• How am I going to calculate progress?

• How am I going to know when my target is attained?

• About how much?

• About how many?

Answering these questions will provide you with information about how to calculate success and see that you are still going forward, such as wages, lost pounds, saved hours, etc.

Achievable

Make sure the purpose is achievable and practical. It can stretch you and drive you to your limits, but it can still be done.

• To achieve my target, what suitable and motivated acts do I need to take?

• How can I attain this objective?

Relevant

Choose a target you are able to accomplish and can put the right time and effort into it. The goal should also be something that really matters to you and/or to the group.

• Does it link to my short-term and long-term plans as a whole?

• Will this purpose make a beneficial difference to me and/or others?

• Is this compatible with my "why" or goal and my values?

Time-centric

Have tasks and deadlines programmed and trackable. This inspires action and keeps you responsible while helping you remain determined as well. You should also set a particular time limit for your target to be accomplished.

• When is this objective going to be finalized?

• Am I committed to spending the required time?

To ensure that any target you make is a SMART goal, use these questions.