How to plan for SMART goals
Planning implies strategy and this is not unlike when it comes to setting SMART goals. In my previous article, I identified some common problems people have when trying to write SMART goals.
In this article, I will explain a simple bridging technique that I have developed that will turn an objective into a SMART goal. It will also help people overcome the problems I identified in my previous article and they will be able to write their own SMART goals.
So what will this bridging technique help with?
– Will direct people to write their goals in such a way as to make them more meaningful to them.
– Get people to include goal metrics to measure their progress.
– Encourages people to think about their individual proficiency levels when it comes to identifying what they can achieve.
– Allows people to focus on their own achievement schedules with the introduction of end dates and start dates.
To begin with is the goal. A goal is usually a short general statement, ie. “Lose weight”. It is intended to provide the general direction to focus on.
To turn a goal into an objective, simply use a bridge word like “by.” Objectives identify clear measurement positions to focus on. Converting the end into an objective quantifies the statement, that is. “To lose weight by 10 kilograms.” Sometimes this is an easy exercise, however converting some goals will require a certain level of lateral thinking to arrive at a measurable statement.
To turn an objective into a goal, try using a bridge word like “within.” Goals are the end results that are desired. Making the objective a goal frames the statement as a result, ie. “Lose weight by 10 kilograms in 20 weeks.”
Turning a goal into a SMART goal date marks the statement as an outcome with a sense of purpose and urgency, ie. “Lose weight by 10 kilograms within 20 weeks from ??/??/????”. Adding a start date means that progress towards goal achievement can be effectively monitored and provide an incentive for motivation.
The last part of the SMART goal statement is to ensure focus on what matters, that is, the tasks and activities required to complete the goal. Goals are the individual purposeful steps that fuel momentum toward goals.
Extending the SMART goal in this way visualizes the milestones that need to be achieved along the way to get to the end, ie. “Lose weight by 10 kilograms within 20 weeks from ??/??/????” through regular weekly exercise, controlled eating and a balanced diet.
Please note that what I have outlined is just one method for developing a SMART goal. It’s all about using an approach that you’re comfortable with and that works. This simple strategy works, but with any goal it requires self-motivation.
This article is part of a series of articles on goal setting. The next article will focus on “Action Scheduling” and developing a task schedule of activities to achieve SMART goals. Be careful with that article. In the meantime, to make sure you have the right tools to develop SMART goals, visit http://www.paragon-marketing.org/goal%20setting.htm.