The Art of Setting SMARTER Goals

Introduction

Setting goals is a common practice in our society, but we tend to neglect the science and strategy behind effective goal setting (1). Although we recognize the importance of goals, we tend to underestimate their true value as we navigate through life. There are numerous advantages to having a set of objectives to strive for and understanding their importance will pave the way for success (2). Goal setting can be an enjoyable process, and it represents the first step in planning for the future (3).

The Theory

Goal setting theory is based on the premise that people have agency and the capacity to determine their own future. By setting goals, individuals take control of their lives and become active agents in shaping their future. They decide what is best for themselves, and then identify and create goals that will help them achieve those objectives (4).

Goal setting effects behaviour in four different ways (4):

• It directs attention towards relevant activities.

• It stimulates effort and motivation.

• It inspires persistence.

• It encourages problem solving and creative thinking.

The Principles

In order the understand effective goal setting, it is important to understand the underlying principles (4):

• Specificity: Goals should be clearly defined and specific. Vague or general goals are difficult to achieve because they lack clear direction and may be open to interpretation.

• Challenge: Goals should be challenging enough to motivate individuals to strive for them, but also realistic enough to be attainable. This helps individuals stay engaged and motivated to work towards their goals.

• Commitment: Individuals must be committed to their goals in order to achieve them. This means dedicating time and effort towards achieving the goal, and being willing to make necessary sacrifices.

• Feedback: Regular feedback is important to track progress and make necessary adjustments to stay on track towards the goal. Feedback can come from a variety of sources such as colleagues, mentors, or self-reflection.

• Task complexity: Goals should be broken down into smaller, manageable tasks to make them less overwhelming and more achievable. This helps individuals stay focused on the immediate steps needed to achieve the larger goal.

How to Set SMARTER Goals

SMARTER is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Evaluated, and Reviewed. It is an extension of the commonly used SMART goals framework, which is used to create effective goals that are more likely to be achieved. The additional components of SMARTER goals emphasize the importance of ongoing evaluation and review to ensure that the goals remain relevant and effective over time (5).

• Specific: Goals should be clearly defined and specific. This means that they should answer the questions: What needs to be accomplished? Why is it important? Who is responsible? Where will it take place? How will it be accomplished?

• Measurable: Goals should be measurable so that progress can be tracked and success can be celebrated. This means that goals should include specific criteria for success and clear measures of progress.

• Achievable: Goals should be realistic and achievable. This means that they should consider available resources, skills, and timeframes. Goals that are too ambitious or unrealistic can lead to discouragement and failure.

• Relevant: Goals should be relevant to your overall mission or purpose. This means that they should be aligned with larger goals and priorities, and should be meaningful and impactful.

• Time-bound: Goals should have a clear deadline or timeframe for completion. This helps to create a sense of urgency and motivation to act.

• Evaluated: Goals should be regularly evaluated to ensure that progress is being made and to adjust as necessary. This helps to keep the focus on the most important priorities and to identify areas for improvement.

• Reviewed: Goals should be reviewed periodically to ensure that they remain relevant and effective over time. This helps to adapt to changing circumstances and to maintain a focus on long-term goals and priorities.

Conclusion

Goal setting is a powerful tool for achieving success, both personally and professionally. The goal setting theory suggests that individuals are driven by their conscious goals, and that behavior is purposeful and regulated by individual goals. The principles of goal setting, including specificity, challenging yet achievable goals, commitment, feedback, and task complexity, provide a framework for creating effective goals that are more likely to be achieved.

Additionally, the use of SMARTER goals, which are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Evaluated, and Reviewed can further enhance the effectiveness of goal setting by providing a practical and results-oriented approach. By setting and working towards goals that are well-defined, challenging, and time-bound, individuals and organizations can increase motivation, productivity, and ultimately achieve success.

References

1. Clear J. Goal Setting: A Scientific Guide to Setting and Achieving Goals. 2023.

2. Houston E. Positive Psychology. 2019. What is Goal Setting and How to Do it Well.

3. Riopel L. Positive Psychology. 2019. The Importance, Benefits, and Value of Goal Setting.

4. Locke E, Latham G. A Theory of Goal Setting & Task Performance. Prentice-Hall; 1990.

5. Doran G. There’s a SMART Way to Write Management’s Goals and Objectives. Manage Rev. 1981;70(11):35–6.