Glossary

SMART Goals

What are SMART Goals?

  • SMART Goals are a method of goal setting designed to provide clarity, focus, and motivation to achieve your objectives. The acronym SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework ensures goals are well-defined and trackable.

What makes a goal SMART?

  • First of all a goal becomes SMART when it meets all five criteria:
      • Specific: The goal is clear detailing exactly what is to be achieved.
      • Measurable: You can quantify or suggest an indicator of progress.
      • Achievable: The goal is realistic and attainable, considering available resources and constraints.
      • Relevant: It aligns with broader objectives or purposes, making it worthwhile and applicable to your needs.
      • Time-bound: The goal has a deadline or a specific timeframe for completion to create urgency.

Can you give me examples of it?

  • For Personal Development: “Read 12 personal development books (one per month) by December 31st to improve my leadership skills.
  • For Fitness: “Lose 10 pounds in 3 months by exercising 4 times a week for at least 30 minutes and maintaining a daily calorie deficit.”
  • For Career Advancement: “Achieve a professional certification in my field within the next 6 months by studying for 10 hours a week.”

What do you do when you have them clear?

  • Develop an Action Plan: Break down the goal into smaller, manageable tasks and steps that lead to the final objective.
  • Track Progress: Regularly monitor your advancement towards the goal, adjusting your strategy as needed to stay on course.
  • Seek Feedback: Obtain input from mentors, peers, or professionals to gain insights and improve your approach.
  • Stay Flexible: Is be prepared to adapt your goals as circumstances change.
  • Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate small successes along the way to maintain motivation and momentum.

By setting SMART goals, individuals and organizations can clearly define their objectives and devise a tangible plan for achieving them, making the process of goal attainment.

smart goals

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