I recently blogged about setting small goals and gaining confidence. Some things really do bear repeating. Most of us know how important it is to set goals and we likely even know most of the information in this post, but we need to be constantly reminded.
Time management and goal setting go hand in
hand. If you have trouble keeping the
goals you have set for yourself, try using the time-honored formula of SMART
goals.
For goals to be effective, they must include
action words that explicitly describe the desired outcome. Effective goals also
include the following SMART elements:
·
Specific: Specify, in detail, exactly what is to be accomplished. Vague goals do
not provide enough structure for achievement. In addition, it is difficult to
determine when an overgeneralized goal has been accomplished.
·
Measurable: Measurable goals indicate how much progress has been made toward
achievement. If a goal is difficult to measure, it may be difficult to achieve.
·
Attainable: Goals must be attainable. Not everyone can play for the National Football
League, but there are many related, achievable goals. Set goals that challenge,
because challenging goals are motivating. However, goals should not exceed the
resources available to the goal setter.
·
Realistic: Similar to attainability, goals must be realistic. Realistic goals do
not rely on unlikely events, such as winning the lottery. Although related to
other people, realistic goals do not rely on others’ behavior; rather,
realistic goals put the responsibility of achievement on the goal setter. Realistic
goals also have realistic time frames for achievement.
·
Timely:
Every goal requires a deadline for completion. Time limits reinforce the
urgency of taking action now rather than later. If a goal is not accomplished
by the stated deadline, create a new, more realistic deadline, if possible.
Missing a deadline is not an excuse to abandon important goals.
What comments would anyone offer about using the SMART
formula for goal setting? Watch for more on goal setting in the next couple of
posts.
