Goal-setting
Definition
‘Goals,’ are “the object or aim of an action to attain a specific standard of proficiency, usually
within a specified time limit.” They are the level of competence that we wish to achieve and create
a useful lens through which we assess our current performance.
Goal-setting is the process of taking active steps to achieve your desired outcome. Maybe your
dream is to become a teacher, musician or physical therapist. Each one of these dreams involves
setting and reaching small (and big!) goals.
Goals are the first step towards planning for the future, and play a fundamental role in the
development of skills in various facets of life, from work to relationships and everything in
between. They are the target at which we aim our proverbial arrow.
Understanding the importance of goals and the techniques involved in setting achievable goals
paves the way for success.
How to set goals in 7 steps?
• Think about the results you want to see.
• Create SMART goals.
• Write your goals down.
• Create an action plan.
• Create a timeline.
• Take action.
• Re-evaluate and assess your progress.
• Now it is time to start setting your goals.
Importance of goal setting in life
The process of setting goals helps you choose where you want to go in life. By knowing precisely
what you want to achieve, you know where you have to concentrate your efforts. You’ll also
quickly spot the distractions that can, so easily, lead you astray.
Initially, research into goal setting attempted to ascertain how the level of intended achievement
(goal) is related to the actual level of achievement (performance) in an organizational setting.
Goal setting increases employee motivation and organizational commitment. Additionally, goals
affect the intensity of our actions and our emotions. The more difficult and valued a goal is, the
more intense our efforts will be in order to attain it, and the more success we experience following
achievement.
Through the experience of success and the positive emotions that accompany it, confidence and
belief in our own abilities grow.
How do I choose the right goal?
Visualizing your goals as an entire plan, with different levels is a great way to break them
down into actionable steps:
1. Level one: Organize your plan by theme.
2. Level two: Define the goals you want to accomplish.
3. Level three: Quantify objectives with metrics.
4. Level four: Define your strategy or plan of attack.
5. Level five: List your tactical action items.
Goal setting tips
Here are seven effective goal setting tips to improve productivity:
1. Focus On Small and Actionable Goals.
2. Find Motivators that Will Keep You On Track.
3. Strategic Planning.
4. Make Goals Achievable, Time-Driven and Measurable.
5. Break It Down and Enjoy Milestones.
6. Use a Task Management Software and Aim Big.
7. Take the SMART Approach.
What Are SMART Goals?
SMART is an acronym that you can use to guide your goal setting. To make sure your goals are
clear and reachable, each one should be:
• Specific (simple, sensible, significant).
• Measurable (meaningful, motivating).
• Achievable (agreed, attainable).
• Relevant (reasonable, realistic and resourced, results-based).
• Time bound (time-based, time limited, time/cost limited, timely, time-sensitive).
What’s an example of a SMART goal?
Let’s say you’re a marketing executive, and you think you’d like to become head of marketing. This
is a specific goal. You might measure your goal of gaining the skills to become head of marketing
by deciding it will take five years. Ask yourself whether gaining these skills is achievable, based on
your existing experience and qualifications. Are you at the right point in your career? Is it relevant
to what you want? Give yourself a realistic time frame for accomplishing the smaller goals that
are necessary to achieving your final objective.
How do I write a SMART goal plan?
• Start by asking exactly what you need to accomplish. This will make your goal specific.
• Quantify your goals. Measurable goals are easier to track, so build in milestones.
• Your goal should be achievable. Is this something you can do with the resources at your
disposal?
• Think why you’re setting this goal. How will it improve your life or career? This is what
makes it relevant.
• Know exactly when you’ll have reached your goal. Have a firm schedule, and stick to it.
