By Kaitlyn Ngo, Staff Writer
Goals are created with the idea of preparation and motivation. The sole purpose of setting and reaching your goals are to have plans, whether long-term or short-term, which can guide us to success. Many harbor disbelief in goals as they believe that creation and execution are too difficult and time consuming; however, if reasonably set properly, any goal can be achievable.
Many people are unaware of the SMART method of setting goals. SMART is a mnemonic acronym for specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. With SMART, the goal setting process can help individuals to help make goals more realistic and tangible. Each component of the SMART acronym has a purpose in aiding and fostering achievement of your goals.
Specific
Goals that are specific and include details are much easier to define and accomplish. General goals that are very ambiguous can be hard to achieve. By determining what your specific goal is and defining it, you’ll have a better sense of direction.
Measurable
Setting goals that are measurable is essential to its successful execution. Examples include how many percentage points you want your grade to go up or how many home runs you want to hit. Setting milestones can help you to measure progress.
Attainable
The attainable aspect of SMART goals is to help you create goals that are able to be achieved. Be sure to define your goals and access whether you possess appropriate knowledge or abilities necessary to achieve them. Accomplishment of a seemingly impossible goal can be made possible and attainable step by step.
Relevant
Creating goals with relevance is important as it establishes focus and concentration to achievement. Make relevant choices and decisions in achieving your goals to make sure they align with your interests.
Time Bound
Having a set time frame for each and every goal is one of the most essential components to setting goals. Establishing dates, times and frames in which you wish to accomplish goals is imperative to accomplishment. Setting a deadline for yourself can help you define what is achievable as placing constraints can motivate you as well. With realistic timing and accurate planning, you’re more likely to achieve success.
Using SMART to plan can help in the long run as and help you set goals more realistically and easily. With this handy method to developing and navigating goals, you’re sure to experience more success and achievement in the future.
