SMART goals are a framework for setting clear, actionable objectives that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Let’s take a closer look!
SMART is an acronym that stands for:
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Specific: Goals should be clear and specific, answering the questions of who, what, where, when, and why. For example, instead of saying “I want to get fit,” a specific goal would be “I want to run a 5K race in three months.”
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Measurable: There should be criteria to track progress and success. This could involve quantifiable metrics, such as “I will save $500 in three months” or “I will complete five projects this quarter.”
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Achievable: Goals should be realistic and attainable, considering available resources and constraints. For instance, setting a goal to “increase sales by 10% in the next quarter” is achievable if it aligns with past performance and market conditions.
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Relevant: Goals must align with broader objectives and values. A relevant goal connects to long-term aspirations, such as “I want to improve my public speaking skills to advance my career.”
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Time-bound: Goals should have a clear deadline to create urgency and prompt action. For example, “I will complete my certification by the end of the year” provides a specific timeframe for achievement.