How to Set SMART Goals

We want to constantly develop and move forward in our lives but sometimes we face problems when setting up the right goals to help us get there. If this is your case, too, then let us introduce you the SMART goals, that will surely make your life a bit easier.

What does SMART stand for

SMART is an acronym designed to help you achieve your objectives. Setting SMART goals means you can clarify your ideas, focus your efforts, use your time and resources productively, and increase your chances of achieving what you want in life.

To make sure your goals are clear and reachable, each one should be:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Relevant
• Timely

How to set SMART goals

Specific

Your objective should be specific, clear and concrete. If it is too abstract and general, you will not feel motivated enough to achieve it. Answer the following questions:

• What do I want to achieve?
• Why is it important?
• Who else is involved?
• Which resources do I have available?

For example: You want to move up the career ladder and you think a practice-oriented degree program will help you get there. Your specific goal could be: “I want to study a DBA program, that will help me with my career development”.

Measurable

With measurable goals, you will be aware of your progress, which will help you focus better and fulfill the deadlines. Ask yourself these questions:

• How long will it take?
• How much, how many?

For example: Calculate how much time is needed to finish your studies and how many exams and assignments have to be completed to successfully graduate. 

Achievable

It is very important that you set realistic goals. Go ahead, if you want to set an ambitious objective that will test your limits but it also has to be achievable. Think of the following questions:

• How can I achieve this goal?
• Is this goal achievable considering my workload?
• Is this goal realistic considering my financial status?

For example: Avoid objectives that you can’t influence. If you aspire to be promoted, don’t set a goal such as: “Get promoted”, as the decision on who gets the job isn’t up to you. Instead, try to be a bit more realistic: “I will gain further education and training to be a strong candidate for the vacancy”. See the difference?

Relevant

You should also make sure the objective is relevant and important to achieve. You can easily identify whether your goal is relevant or not – just check if you answer “yes” to each of these questions:

• Is the goal worth the energy and resources?
• Is this the right time?
• Is it consistent with what I want to do?
• Am I the right person to achieve this goal?

For example: Think about the big picture. Will studying really help you with your career? Is your goal in line with what your partner wishes? Are you a sufficiently organized and motivated to achieve this goal?

Timely

Each of your goals should also need to have a clear deadline. Only then will you be able to fully concentrate on your objective without any procrastination and day-to-day agenda standing between you and your desired goal. Ask these questions:

• When?
• What will I achieve in six months?
• What will I achieve in one year?
• What can I do today?

For example: Studying while working will take a chunk of your leisure time, so it is important to set realistic expectations. Think about how many courses can you complete in a period of time. Determine when you would like to finish your studies and set a deadline. Good luck!