S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting

Make your goal setting S.M.A.R.T.!

I can't think of a better acronym for goal setting.  But can 5 letters make for a more simplistic way to set your goals?  Absolutely they can!  And what a better time than now, especially when those New Year Resolutions lists are being compiled (or in some of our cases, rewritten).

As we prepare for the New Year here in our family we have decided to put together what we call, The Plan (idea taken from The Parenting Breakthrough, by Merrilee Browne Boyack).  The Plan consists of a check list of things we each desire to learn throughout the year.  Compiling The Plan while using the S.M.A.R.T. method of goal setting may prove to be the difference between success and failure.

So, if you are the type of person that has no problem with goal setting and accomplishing the results you set after, then this is not for you.  But for the rest of us out there, perhaps doing it the S.M.A.R.T. way is what we have all been seeking after.

Specific

Specific goals lead to greater success than vague ones. Make your goal as specific as possible. For instance, "Increase savings by 15 percent" is specific; "save more money" is not. The best way to set specific goals is to answer the 5 Ws about them: who is involved, what do you want to accomplish, where must it be done, when must it be done, and why do you want to achieve the goal?

Measurable

Establishing measurements for your goal increases the likelihood that you will attain it. Measurements provide the yardstick you need to determine your progress and stay on track. If your goal is to increase savings, your bank statement provides a solid measurement. There is no question how you are faring.

Attainable

Make certain your goals are attainable. Becoming a millionaire is an admirable goal. However, depending on your ability to earn and save, it may be nothing more than a dream. Establishing a challenging goal is worthwhile, but if you set it too high, you set yourself up to fail.

Realistic

In order to be realistic, your goal must be one that you are able and willing to work toward. A realistic goal can also be a difficult one. Locke's study proved that the harder the goal, the more performance improved in order to achieve it. Only you can determine what is truly realistic. Break down large or difficult goals into smaller steps or milestones. These "mini" goals help make the large one more attainable. Timely Goals that are timely are more likely to be achieved. Establish deadlines for your goals. Deadlines are true motivators. If your goal is to increase your savings, determine exactly how much you want to save by a specific date. For example, "save $1,000 by the end of the year" is timely. It allows you to calculate the steps needed to keep you on track.

Tangible

Tangible goals are ones that you can feel with one of your senses. Many successful goal achievers use visualization to make their goals tangible. If you want to increase your savings, visualize what the money or your bank statement will look like.



to read more visit: http://www.livestrong.com/article/212882-goal-setting-advice/#ixzz1AqnqmVvn