How Does One Set SMART Goals?

Be SMART – this is the most common advice that people would give you, irrespective of your problems. So what is considered as SMART?

SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time Bound activity. It involves setting goals and accomplishing them in order to bring about positive, long-lasting changes in your life.

Read on to learn more about SMART goal setting:

S – Specific: Knowing what you want is important. Devote all your time and energy to that specific task. To set your specific goal, ask yourself these 6 “W” questions:

• Who: Who is involved?
• What: What do I want to accomplish?
• Where: Identify a location.
• When: Establish a time frame.
• Which: Identify requirements and constraints.
• *Why: Specific reasons, purpose or benefits of accomplishing the goal.

M - Measurable: How will you know when you have achieved you goal? For this set a timetable and plan for each day. Try to finish off the tasks you jot down for that specific day. If you are unable to complete your task on a given day, try finishing it on the next day. If not, revise your plan again. Also closely monitor your progress. Is something slowing you down? Try to shift timings so you can push your task to more suitable time.

A – Achievable: Set realistic and achievable goals. This will make it easier for you to achieve them. It is better to set smaller goals and achieve them, than to set a larger goal and not be able to dedicate any time to it.

R - Realistic or Relevant: Think realistically and set more relevant goals. Realistic thinking will also offer more motivation because they will be easier to achieve. When something seems easily achievable it will also look simpler to you.

T – Time Bound: Deadlines are a good thing. Set time limits based on your schedule. Therefore, be realistic. Know how much you can finish in a given time.

Over time, SMART goal setting will eventually become a habit that you might begin to incorporate in your everyday life, even to complete the most menial of tasks.