Smart Kids Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals

There are many time management training tools available, but one of the most useful is

the S.M.A.R.T. method, which first appeared in the November 1981 issue of

Management Review. It perfectly explains how goals should be set up.

The S.M.A.R.T. Method.

(S) – Specific. A goal should be clearly defined, using details to describe specifically

what the goal will be. So it’s not enough to say “I want to lose weight.” You must specify

exactly how many pounds you want to lose. “I want to lose fifteen pounds.”

(M) – Measurable. You must be able to measure a clear beginning and ending to your

goal, with measurable results. “I now weigh 165 pounds. In thirty days I will weigh 150

pounds.”

(A) – Active. You must take active responsibility for achieving the goal.

Passive: “I’m going to lose fifteen pounds if I ever get enough time to go to the gym.”

This puts no responsibility on you.

Active: “I’m going to lose fifteen pounds by the end of January.”

(R) – Realistic. Any goal you set must be realistic. “I’m going to lose one hundred

pounds in thirty days” is not only unrealistic, it’s dangerous, but losing fifteen pounds in

thirty days is very realistic and doable with the proper tools and actions.

(T) – Time Bound. Every goal must have a timeframe within which it will be completed.

Businesses don’t reach goals by saying to their employees “Here’s a project for you, but

it really doesn’t matter when you get it done.” When will you have those fifteen pounds

off, exactly?

Having your S.M.A.R.T. plan in writing will keep you organized and allow you to see

where you are in the process rather than trying to remember what you have to do and

when.