People who set goals tend to be more productive. They also tend to be wealthier and more successful in their professional lives.
The key to effective goal-setting is to precisely define your goals. SMART goals can help you do it!
S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym that stands for: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Based.
S: Specific
- It is important to be specific when you define your goal, so that you know when you have achieved your goal.
- What exactly do you want to accomplish? Why do you want to accomplish this goal?
M: Measurable
- You need to be able to measure progress toward your goal.
- How many pounds are you going to lose? How many miles are you going to run?
A: Attainable
- The goal needs to be within your reach and within your control.
R: Relevant
- The goal should be something that you really desire. If it is inconsistent with your other desires, you are likely to fail.
- For example, if you want to get fit on a low carbohydrate diet, but don’t want to stop eating cookies, you are likely to fail.
T: Time-Based
- The goal should have a specific deadline. There should be a specific time limit.
S.M.A.R.T. goals are clear and well-defined. On the date of the deadline, you will know if you have achieved your goal!