How to set SMART Goals

How to set SMART Goals

Setting goals is important because it gives you long-term vision and short-term motivation. It focuses your time and energy into the most important parts of your life. If you’re a human being currently working then you have heard off the five year plan. You’re five year plan in your career can include getting licensed, moving up the corporate ladder, or changing careers all together. In order to create this five year plan, you need to set goals.

I do like to say that “A goal is a dream still in progress”. Dreaming is not bad but one must remember that you can not just reach a dream. One must work hard at achieving their collective goals first. If you want your goals to be SMART, here is what you need to be asking yourself.

estee-janssens-aQfhbxailCs-unsplash.jpg

Specific: What specifically do you want to accomplish?

  • Why do I want to accomplish this?

  • What are the requirements?

  • What are the constraints?

Measurable: How will you know when your goal has been accomplished?

  • How will I measure my progress?

Attainable: How can this goal be accomplished?

  • What steps should I take?

Relevant: Is this goal worth working hard to accomplish?

  • Is this the right time?

  • Do I have the necessary resources to get it done?

  • Is this in term with my long term goals?

Timely: By when will this goal be accomplished?

  • When am I going to work on this goal?

With this in mind, you can tackle any task, large or small. I have added a quick worksheet on SMART goals, feel free to print it, write on it, and share it with your friends. If you would like to read more on goal setting, overcoming setbacks, and holding yourself accountable, check out my A Thousand Words on goal setting.

Briana Fountain