SMART stands for a group of words that together act as the go-to-guide for setting objectives. Working hard and not working ‘smart’ is actually not smart, a path needs to be carved and followed to ensure results. SMART stands for- specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. It symbolizes the ‘musts’ of framing goals. In order to reach the destination, you need to know where it is and how to get there, otherwise you will keep wandering. Similarly, to keep track of making progress, one has to have the goals laid and then check for right milestones time and again. The method is easy to use and does not require any specific training or tools.
Let’s study SMART in detail-
- Specific- the goal should be crystal clear, so that you do not get lost in the process. In order to focus, you need a clear vision, all ‘Ws’ should be answered and every detail should be studied in the planning.
- Measurable- goals that can be measured keep you motivated to work and achieve results every day. You should be able to access your growth, how far you have come and how further you have to go.
- Achievable- the goal set should be realistic and within your capabilities, one should definitely push their limits but that too in a possible manner. Plan practically in accordance to the available resources and labour.
- Relevant- the goal should be worth all the hard work and investment. Be sure of the plan, check if it aligns with your desires and then move forward with it. Be certain that every minute result achieved in the process is in sync with the ultimate result
- Timely- there has to be a deadline to complete the tasks. The framework ensures regularity and motivates to achieve the goal within scheduled time. This prevents spending too much time over a single task and makes you focus on the entire plan.
The approach can be applied in business as well as personal life. It helps to accomplish day-to-day targets and major life plans too. You can adopt the technique for retirement plans, travel plans, family functions, etc.
