How to Set Specific Measurable Goals

How to Set Specific Measurable Goals

Whether your goal is to lose weight, find a different job or become a better parent, you can achieve that objective by setting specific and measurable goals. Goals that are both specific and measurable have a higher chance of succeeding than those that are general or not well-defined because you will know whether and when you have achieved them. The SMART system identifies five aspects of a goal that makes it effective: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timed
Generate several goals, using either a computer or a piece of paper. At this point, do not worry whether it is specific, measurable or actionable. State each goal in positive terms, for example "Become a better musician." Avoid stating your goal in negative terms, such as "Stop being a bad musician.

Review each goal as to whether it is specific enough. To be specific, it must be possible to envision what successful completion would look like. For example, "lose weight" is not specific enough because you don't know how much weight loss would be considered success or when you should stop losing weight. On the other hand, "lose 20 pounds" is a specific goal because it specifies how much is involved. Revise each goal (if needed) to make it more specific.
Review each goal again to determine if it is measurable. A measurable goal has a concrete number or visible outcome attached to it. For example, "lose 20 pounds" is both a specific and measurable goal because you will know when you have lost 20 pounds. On the other hand, "find a better job" is not a measurable goal. Revise each goal so that it has either a number, amount or a specific outcome associated with it. For example, you might revise "find a better job" as "find a job that has a shorter commute than my current job" or "find a job that has health benefits." In both case the word "better" was reframed as an action or outcome that you can measure.

Identify whether your goals are attainable. Revise or eliminate the goals that seem unattainable. Attainable goals are ones that are possible for you to achieve.

Identify whether your goals are realistic. You need to strike a balance between realistic and challenging goals. You are unlikely to attain wildly unrealistic goals; likewise, if your goals are too small or lacking in challenge, they will be too easy to achieve and you may not feel as motivated to work on them

Set a deadline for each goal. Goals that are specific or measurable have no impact if there is no deadline associated with them. A set deadline will help you answer the question of whether you have achieved your goal or not.By Danielle Cort

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