SMARTER Goals

Have you heard of the concept of SMART goals? Setting SMART goals is a proven method for achieving success in both personal and professional contexts. By setting goals that meet these criteria, you can increase your chances of achieving your desired outcome.

SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Action-Oriented, Realistic, and Time-bound.

However, I like to set SMARTER goals. Why? Well, it isn’t that I feel that I am above regular old SMART goals or that I feel I am SMARTER. The difference between the two kind of goal setting is that when you set a SMARTER goal you also make sure that the goal is Ethical and Rewarding.

Here’s a quick guide on how to set SMARTER goals:

  1. Specific: Be clear and specific about what you want to accomplish. Instead of saying “I want to lose weight,” say “I want to lose 10 pounds in the next three months.”
  2. Measurable: Make sure your goal can be quantified so you can track your progress. In the example above, the specific goal of losing 10 pounds is measurable.
  3. Action-Oriented: Take a look at the over-arching goal you wish to accomplish. What are the steps that you can take in order to reach that goal?
  4. Realistic: Set a goal that is realistic and attainable. Losing 10 pounds in one week is not achievable, but losing it in three months is.
  5. Time-bound: Set a deadline for achieving your goal. The example goal of losing 10 pounds in three months is time-bound.
  6. Ethical/Ecological: A goal that is not good for you or any other stakeholders is not worth working on.
  7. Rewarding: How many times have you accomplished any goal that you do not feel will have any worth? If you do not feel that this goal is worth accomplishing, maybe you shouldn’t attempt it.

Once you’ve set your SMARTER goals, it’s important to create a plan of action and take steps towards achieving them. Remember to track your progress and make adjustments as needed. You can use our SMARTER Goals tracker to keep you on track.

In conclusion, setting SMART goals is a great way to increase your chances of achieving your desired outcome, whether it’s personal or professional. By being specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound, and creating an ethical and rewarding plan of action, you can achieve your goals.

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