Unit 8: Discussion 2

SMART GOALS

The basic concept of SMART goals is based on the work of Doran (1981). The concept has been modified and reused many times in literature about strategic planning, self-improvement, team processes, etc. “Checking” your goals against the SMART criteria can help develop goals that have a higher potential for success!

SMART =

· Specific – target a specific area for improvement.

What exactly do I want to accomplish?

· Measurable – quantify or at least suggest an indicator of progress.

If a goal is not measurable it is not possible to know whether there is progress toward reaching the goal. A measurable goal is one that indicates when it is accomplished.

· Attainable – can it be reached within reasonable constraints?

The goal should be realistic; not out of reach or so easy that it is meaningless. Are there some attitudes, abilities, skills and financial capacity you need to reach the goals?

· Relevant – does it matter?

Goals that are relevant will tend to generate support from your family, workplace, mentors, and peers. A relevant goal will be worthwhile and will “fit” with other goals.

· Time-related or Time-bound – specify when the result(s) can be achieved.

Goals need target dates. A time-bound goal not only establishes a sense of urgency but also helps define what can be done today, next week, within the next few months or the next year.

Doran, G. T. (1981). There's a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management's goals and

objectives. Management Review, 70 (11): 35–36.