Setting goals is a great way to achieve your dreams. However, not all goals are created equal. In this post, we will take a look at the 7 attributes of goals and how you can set them up to be more effective.
The SMART goal framework has been around since the early 1980's. However, Michael Hyatt's company, Full Focus, suggests an upgraded version - the SMARTER Goal. This system replaces the original "R" (Realistic) with a concept that may put some, well, on edge. Let's jump in.
S: Specific
When setting goals it is important to make sure that they are specific. This means that the goal should be clear. Instead of setting a vague goal such as "get fit," a more specific goal would be "run three times a week for 30 minutes." Making goals specific will help ensure that they are achievable and help keep motivation levels high.
M: Measurable
Setting measurable goals is an important part of achieving success. When setting a goal, it is important to break it down into smaller, measurable objectives that can be tracked. This helps to ensure that progress is being made and can help to keep you motivated and on track toward achieving your goal. Additionally, having a measurable goal provides an opportunity to celebrate the smaller successes along the way.
A: Actionable
Setting actionable goals is an important part of the SMARTER goal-setting process. Actionable goals come with clear steps and action items that can be checked off one by one in order to accomplish the goal, giving you the satisfaction of progress and success as you go. Actionable goals also help to create a timeline for when the goal should be completed by, allowing you to stay on track and stay motivated to reach your end goal.
R: Risky
The goals you set should be risky, even a little daunting. Setting risky goals is a good way to challenge yourself and push the boundaries of what is possible. This challenge is a good way to keep you engaged in your goal, and ultimately, will make reaching your goals much sweeter!
Risky goals should rest squarely between your comfort zone and your delusion zone. This is better known as the discomfort zone. Goals in your comfort zone will eventually lose their appeal and bore you. Conversely, goals in your delusion zone will lead to early burn-out due to feeling like you can't succeed because the task/goal is too hard. However, goals in the discomfort zone will give you a challenge, keeping your attention, but won't cause frustration.
T: Time-bound
When setting goals, it is important to make them time-bound. This means setting a realistic timeline for when you want to accomplish the goal by. Doing this will create a sense of urgency and will help you stay focused on achieving the goal. Additionally, it will provide you with a benchmark to measure your progress against, making it easier to stay on track and make adjustments if you find yourself veering off course. Setting time-bound goals is an essential part of the SMARTER goal-setting process and can make all the difference in achieving success.
E: Exciting
The most successful goals are exciting goals. Setting exciting and personally meaningful goals will help you to stay motivated to stay focused on achieving them. The most powerful goals are powered by internal, or intrinsic, motivators. While external, or extrinsic, motivators will work temporarily, they do not compare to or have the longevity of intrinsic motivators.
R: Relevant
Setting relevant goals is an important part of achieving success. It's important to make sure your goals are relevant and aligned to the individual, for his or her current station in life. It's also important to ensure that goals align with your values. If they conflict with values, they are condemned to failure from the onset. And finally, goals must align with themselves. Goals that conflict with one another will only lead to frustration and disappointment.
Conclusion
Setting SMARTER goals is an important part of achieving your dreams. By using this 7-part framework, you can make sure that you are taking the right approach to reach your goals. By following these guidelines, you will be on the path to achieving success.
