Creating a SMART goal
The SMART goal-setting process is like a classic item of clothing. It remains timeless regardless of the drifting tides of fashion.
It’s exactly the same with a SMART goal. You don’t need to hunt around for the latest acronym on goal-setting. Setting an objective using a SMART goal is a winner every time.
What does SMART stand for?
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Realistic
- Timely
SMART goal - Specific
Being specific is probably the most important part of the process. Most goals fall down because they’re woolly.
In NLP, a so called, well formed outcome is similar to a SMART goal. It’s works because it’s been thought through.
To find out if a goal is specific ask who, what, where, why and how questions.
Woolly goal = I want to get fit
Specific goal = I want to cycle 1000 miles over the next month
SMART goals – Measurable
Breaking down the goal into chunks helps make it measurable. It’s much easier to see if you’re on track if you’ve got some milestones along the way.
If you want to cycle 1000 miles over a month that means pedalling around 250 miles a week. That’s well over 30 miles a day.
In this instance a weekly mileage tally should show if you’re on track. This means the 1000 miles over a month would be a measurable goal.
SMART goals – Achievable
It’s easy to over-stretch yourself with a goal. Making it achievable means you can accomplish it. There’s no point becoming over-whelmed with something that’s too ambitious.
If cycling over 30 miles a day is too much, then change the goal. Make it achievable. Would 1,000 miles over 6 weeks be more achievable?
SMART goals – Realistic
In order to be realistic a goal needs to be something that you’re willing to work towards. It’s no good setting yourself a goal that you’re unable to achieve.
Take our example. If you’re very unfit then is 1,000 miles a realistic challenge? Would 300 or 500 miles be more realistic? If the goal isn’t realistic you won’t achieve it.
SMART goals – Timely
This refers to the time frame. Have you set yourself an end-point with this goal?
When you’re working with a client find out when they intend to start the goal and finish it. That way you are able to hold them accountable to their actions.
With our cycling example the answer is yes, it is timely. There is a definitive time frame of a month. However I’d want to know when they intend to start the challenge to make it completely timely.
In Summary
SMART goals are a great way to work with clients. Most clients will have heard of the acronym SMART. Taking them through a goal in this methodical way helps a client to slow down and focus.
Setting SMART goals is a great way to develop sound and realistic goals.
about the author
Liz Scott is a Leadership and Executive Coach. She works extensively with senior leaders within the police and council. She is also in great demand as a coach of head teachers. Liz is also co-designing a unique coaching and mentoring programme for schools and colleges.
more info
www.lizscottcoaching.com
GROW model
life coaching skills
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