Smart goal setting is our ability to set what, why and how we what things to happen for us. It is an objective or aim of an action and involves establishing specific measurable , time –targeted objectives. Goal setting is a major component of our personal development. The SMART Model an acronym which stands for (specific, measurable, action orientated ,realistic and timely) is strongly favored for anyone attempting to set goals; it is a proven method which ensures you set and achieve your goals with success.In this post are a few titbits;
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Reasons we all need to integrate the Habit of Setting Smart Goal(s) into our life.
1. Sense of direction and purpose: we all have dreams but “A dream without a goal is a wish~ Bill Cole….. Smart goal setting gives all that sense of purpose with directions and we are able to see values within ourselves.
2. Keeps us focused: smart goal setting serves as a directive function which direct attention and effort towards goal –relevant activities and away from goal –irrelevant activities.
3. Improves life: smart goal setting can certainly help anyone become a better person. Research has demonstrated that people who set goals are better satisfied and achieve more.
 4. Problem solving: You can become a guru at problem solving. Our brain is very good at solving problem(s) but works best when a task(s) is established. According to Wood and Locke, 1990 cited in Locke and Latham, 2002 ‘goals affect action indirectly by leading to the arousal, discovery, and/or use of task-relevant knowledge and strategies’. When we set smart goal(s) our mind sees a problem(s) that needs addressing and gets to work by searching for ways forward.
5. Comfort Zone: Our comfort zone sometimes can be our worst enemy. So getting out and taking some form of risks ( especially calculated ones) can provide a good platform for growth and personal development.
 6. Energy function: smart goals have an energizing function; higher goals lead to greater effort than lower or no goals. Goal setting can improve our  performance.
7. Builds confidence: Once you get to a stage of accomplishing goals  with satisfaction, you most certainly will boost your self confidence.
Good luck 
and don’t forget to set your smart goals this week with a strong sense of commitment to them.
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Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach~Tom Robbins
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Question
What your experience of smart goal setting?
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Reference: The Great Wikipedia and Edwin, A.P & Latham,G.P(2002) ‘Building a practical useful theory of goal setting and task motivation’, American Psychologist , Vol 57(5),pp.705-717.
Picture Credited to Jeoy Shillolo
25. August 2010 at 6:41 am
I love this acronym. I’ve never heard of it, but it will be helpful in
some of my teaching situations. Thanks!
25. August 2010 at 4:09 pm
I am one of those people that gets most of my goals complete to about %90 and then it takes me very long to finish that final 10%. I think that the importance of a goal being measurable is very important. Many times we often set goals that can’t be measured and of course there is no way to meet a goal that falls into that category.
25. August 2010 at 6:21 pm
Great post and point. I think Smart Goal setting is so important and I thought your first rationale about why to do it, is one of the most important ones. When we have a sense of purpose and direction and know that are goals are aligned, we really are able to live in the best ways. Great post and recommendation.
26. August 2010 at 12:47 pm
I’m never sure what my goals are. I usually find out after I’ve achieved them.
26. August 2010 at 5:55 pm
These statements are very true. I couldn’t add more to these anymore. Thanks for sharing.
29. August 2010 at 8:31 am
Thanks @One of the Guys.
Thanks @Tina and I must applaud you, 90% is significantly a high percentage I belief you will be an inspiration to others and like you say “goal being measurable is very important†to us all I suppose it keeps us contained and focused .
Certainly @Sibly I could’nt agree any less, thanks for your comment .
You always make me giggle @NP as one of my favourite bloggers and you never fail to post out your great monthly Aphorism , thanks for your comment.
Thanks @JollyPrincess