SMART Goals

Each goal you create should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timed with a deadline. Let’s clarify the concept of a SMAR'T goal.

Specific. The goal must be clearly defined with parameters that state who, what, when, where, and how. Specific goals help you stay focused on one thing at a time. For example, stating that you want to become a member of a networking group is fine, but you can define your goal more clearly by saying that you want to become a member of a specific chamber or a particular association.

Measurable. The goal must include a way of measuring the results. This typically means that there is a number associated with the goal, such as how many or what percentage—some quantifiable way to measure progress toward the goal. Stating that you want to receive more referrals this year is neither specific nor measurable; it’s more useful to say specifically that you want a 30 percent increase to your referral business from a networking group.

Attainable. Each goal that you create must be within reach. It should not be so far-fetched that it’s out of your vision. To determine whether a goal is attainable, consider what you accomplish this year. Then consider what you have coming up next year that may either impede or improve your ability to meet a specific goal. Finally consider everything that needs to be done to accomplish your goal. When all is said and done, do you honestly feel that with hard work, dedication, and focus, you can meet this goal. If so, write it down and commit to achieving it..

Relevant. The goal must have relevance and meaning for you; otherwise, you will not be motivated to accomplish it. What will be the outcome if you meet a particular goal? Will you make more money? Will you have a higher quality of life? Will you be able to save for retirement more comfortably? Will you get a promotion or a raise? Will you save time in the long run? Whatever your personal motivation, ensure that your goals tap into it. Doing so will inspire you every day to keep striving toward the finish line.

Timed. Speaking of a finish line, the goal must have a deadline or completion date assigned to it. Without one, You will lose your focus and your desire to meet your goal in a timely manner. Our human competitive nature draws us to the finish line. We need to aim for a target. For example, stating that you want a 30 percent increase in your referral business from your participation in a networking group is indeed specific and measurable, but how long will it take, and when will you measure it? Stating that you want a 30 percent increase in your annual referral business from the association by December 31 will be much more effective, because it contains a deadline.

When you put all of these elements together, you might end up with a goal statement that looks like one of these:

I will become a member of the ABC Chamber by June 30
I will achieve a 30 percent increase in my annual referral business from networking in (a certain networking group by December 31).