We all have goals. If you’re like me, sometimes you meet your goals and sometimes you do not meet your goals. It’s always a good idea to debrief your performance against goals to identify where your actions went off the rails. Many times (even after years of experience in goal-setting), I discover my issue began when I set the goal to begin with. Here’s a tool that can help, especially if you use it at the beginning of goal-setting. It will make your debrief much more satisfying!
We’ve all heard about SMART goals; but how do they work?
SMART goals are:
Specific: Goals should be stated in clear, concise terms
Make your goal clear with every detail needed. Be concise. Include what is necessary to know whether you’ve accomplished the goal. Less is more here.
S: Lose 15 pounds by May 15th beginning with a weigh-in on March 1st and weekly thereafter.
Measurable: Goals must be verifiable with the measurements detailed
You will want to create measurements that specifically tell you whether the goal is reached. I find it helpful to create waystations that help me see if I am on track.
M: Weigh-ins weekly from March 1 to May 15th.
Attainable: Goals must be attainable
Ask yourself if this goal can be achieved. Using the information above, my goal is to lose 15 pounds between March 1 and May 15th – about 10 weeks. Therefore, I am trying to lose 1.5 pounds a week. Yup, that’s achievable!
A: 1.5 pounds a week is a reasonable expectation.
Relevant: You need to know how the goal links to your vision for the future
Is this goal something that is meaningful? Will it change my life? My job? My future? A relationship? What’s in it for me?
R: Losing 15 pounds will make me healthier and happier. It’s definitely going to allow me to shop for new clothes!
Timely: Goals should be linked to time
Goals that are open-ended tend to create behaviors that tend to wither and fade. Even if “healthier eating” is something to be desired, over time I’d be likely to fall off the wagon. The timing helps me understand “it’s not forever” and may help me stay on track.
T: This goal will be accomplished by May 15th.
Do you or your team struggle with setting meaningful goals? Whether it’s about personal development or sales goals, we can help. info@transglobaldevelopment.com or see more at www.transglobaldevelopment.com