January is a natural time for goal setting. While having goals is not the only way to success, it can help you along the way. Write down your goals, and you’re more likely to follow them through. But set SMART goals.
SMART goals give you energy to carry on when motivation is low. But they’re not for the faint of heart. To turn your dreams into attainable goals, you need the right mindset. Examine your strengths and weaknesses as well as your passions.
Setting unrealistic goals only results in frustration. Setting specific goals gives you direction. Establishing time-bound and measurable metrics help you test your success. Documenting everything helps you figure things out.
Ready to set some SMART goals for the year? Let’s get started.
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What Are SMART Goals?
SMART goals are, well – smart. The uppercase acronym gives you a framework for goal setting. All the elements work together to help you reach your goals. When you set SMART goals, you should make them:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-Based
Today, I’ll share a short overview of these elements so you can set your own smart goals for the year.
For extra motivation and guidance, read The Art of Setting SMART Goals by Anisa Marku. And if you’re ready to close the gap between reality and your dreams, read Your Best Year Ever by Michael Hyatt.
Who Invented SMART Goals?
George T. Doran presented SMART goals in the November 1981 issue of Management Review. His paper discussed the difficulty and importance of setting goals. His framework called for specific, measurable, assignable, realistic, and time-related goals.
Since then, the SMART acronym has varied depending on the person or business using it. Variations include words like significant, strategic, meaningful, motivational, adjustable, attainable, reliable, and tangible.
Some people add extra letters to the goal setting acronym. SMARTER, for example, extends the framework with words like evaluated and reviewed.
How to Set SMART Goals
SMART goals provide the motivation and momentum you need to achieve your objectives. They can help you manage your time, track your progress, and hold yourself accountable. Here’s a breakdown of how to set SMART goals this year.
1. Set Specific Goals
Begin with your primary aim, such as starting a home business. Be specific, not vague. Define what type of business you want to own, and what product or service it will sell. Write it down.
2. Set Measurable Goals
Include one or two measurable goals. For example, by what date will you register your business or make your first sale? How many sales do you want per week, and by when?
3. Set Achievable Goals
Create goals that fit realistic time frames and resources. Don’t apply the SMART framework to impossible or improbable goals. Can you actually make one million sales within two weeks of starting your business?
4. Set Relevant Goals
Are your goals relevant to your primary aim? How will doing something specific and measurable help you achieve something else? For instance, money to invest in your business, or free time with your family.
5. Set Time-Based Goals
Like measurable goals, time-based ones help you define a time frame for achieving them. Set different time frames for each part of your overall goal.
Wrapping It Up
Documenting everything is important when setting SMART goals. It’s also important to recognize that goals are not permanent. They should be flexible and easy to change if a problem arises.
You can overcome a problem. It may take you longer, or down a different path. You might pivot to a different goal. The important thing is to keep moving forward. And check your SMART goals every so often, to make sure you’re still on track. ◻️
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Now It’s Your Turn
Thank you for reading my post. Now it’s YOUR turn to chime in. Will you set SMART goals this year? What are your plans for starting strong – and finishing stronger?
Let’s fill the comments with friendly conversation. Scroll down to leave a response, ask a question, or just say hello. And if you liked this post, please give it a share.
Blessings, Annette
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