What are these SMART goals listed above and why are they important? Keep reading to find out.
First, what do each of these SMART goals represent or mean?
- S (specific) – You need to be clear on what you want to accomplish.
- M (measurable) – The goals should be quantifiable.
- A (attainable) – The goals should not be too easy or too hard. Set ambition, but realistic targets.
- R (relevant) – The target should align with your business goals.
- T (time based/timely) – Set a time frame and/or a clear deadline for achieving your goals.
Let’s dive into each of these SMART goals just a little more to find out what makes them important to you!
Specific Goals
“Goals that are specific have a significantly greater chance of being accomplished. Be able to answer topics like who, what, where, when, and why.”
- What is your goal?
- Can you define it as clearly as possible?
- Who, What, When, Where, Why?
Measurable Goals
“A SMART goal must have criteria for measuring progress. If there are no criteria, you will not be able to determine your progress and if you are on track to reach your goal.”
- How will you measure your success?
- What metrics will you use?
- How many/how much?
Attainable Goals
“A SMART goal must be achievable and attainable. This will help you figure out ways you can realize that goal and work towards it. The achievability of the goal should be stretched to make you feel challenged, but defined well enough that you can actually achieve it.”
- Is your goals achievable?
- What roadblocks will you face?
- Have others done it successfully before?
Relevant Goals
“A SMART goal must be realistic in that the goal can be realistically achieved given the available resources and time. A SMART goal is likely realistic if you believe that it can be accomplished.”
- Is the goal relevant to your company?
- Is it worth targeting?
- It is within reach?
- Are you able to commit to achieving the goal?
Time Based/Timely
“A SMART goal must be time-bound in that it has a start and finish date. If the goal is not time-constrained, there will be no sense of urgency and, therefore, less motivation to achieve the goal.”
- How long will it take to complete your goal?
- What’s your roadmap going forward?
- Does my goal have a deadline?
