S.M.A.R.T.E.R Goal Setting

Much of what I’ve learned about productivity and organization I learned from Michael Hyatt.

This leadership and clarity guru has published books, blogs, and articles ad nauseam to help us win and work and succeed in life.

I recall finding him online during a time when I was setting goals but often missing the mark. I was struggling to get things done. Michael’s common sense methods helped me get on track. Learning about S.M.A.R.T.E.R.

Goal Setting was a game changer! Using this acronym, take a look at how he helped me immediately improve the focus of the goals I set. Apply this to your next project and cross the finish line winning.

• Specific: Identify exactly what you want to accomplish.

• Good: “I’m going to start an e-newsletter.” Better: “I’m going to publish a bi-weekly newsletter, and call it ________________”.

• Measurable: Quantify the result. Good: “I’m going to call on prospects more.” Better: “I’m going to complete 100 prospect calls every week.”

• Actionable: Start with an action verb, not a to-be verb. Good: “Be more consistent with my networking.” Better: “Meet with two market influencers each week.”

• Realistic: Recognize and implement the power of incremental change over time. Good: “I’m going to earn $1 million dollars in commission.” (But your best year is $150,000) Better: “I’m going to increase my income by 20% this year over last year.”

• Time-Bound: Set a specific deadline. Good: “I’m going to rewrite my proposals.” Better: “I will draft, edit, and finalize my new pitch book by January 31.”

• Exciting: Make your goals personally compelling. Good: “I will prospect more.” (but I HATE making calls) Better: “I will hire an assistant to call on prospects, freeing me up to meet with more prospects.”

• Relevant: Make sure your goals are appropriate to the season of your life. Good: “I’ll spend an hour every morning on personal development.” (But, I have to also drive my kids to school every day.) Better: “I’ll read every night for 30 minutes after my kids and wife go to sleep.”