2023 SMART Goals: How to Define and Conquer Them
You’ve probably heard that goal setting is a habit of highly successful people, and there is a lot of research to back up that claim. For example, one study found that people who wrote down their goals were 33 percent more likely to achieve them than those who only kept goals in their head.
The SMART framework is a proven approach to writing down and achieving goals. In case you aren’t familiar with this framework, SMART is an acronym, with each letter representing an essential factor for well-designed goals:
- Specific. Goals should be clearly defined as particular objectives and not just general aspirations. For example, a specific goal might be earning a forklift certification.
- Measurable. It should be very apparent when a goal is achieved. One example of a measurable goal might be to find a cost-cutting measure every month.
- Attainable. Goals can become more attainable or less attainable over time. For example, if your goal is to become an executive in your industry, that will become more attainable as you gain experience.
- Relevant. Any incremental goals you define for your career should be related to bigger-picture career objectives. For example, it might be nice to learn Spanish, but dedicating hours to learning another language might be a distraction if it doesn’t directly relate to your career.
- Time-Sensitive. Goals without deadlines aren’t goals: They’re aspirations. Set deadlines that give you enough time while also providing a sense of urgency.
How to Define and Conquer Goals
The SMART framework is effective when it comes to setting goals, but it doesn’t help you define and achieve them.
When trying to define goals, think of possible objectives in terms of importance. Not to be confused with urgent goals, important goals are often medium- or long-term goals that require significant effort and resources.
It’s also important to evaluate your strengths or the strengths of your team. If you or your team excel at communication, for example, the best goals you can set will speak to these abilities. Additionally, you should consider any limiting factors, such as finances and time constraints. Knowing your limits will help you avoid wasted effort so you can smartly direct your energies.
Achieving the goals that you have identified and defined often comes down to maintaining the right mentality. Obstacles will inevitably come up and it’s important that you approach them with curiosity, as opposed to frustration. Overcome procrastination by examining why you feel the need to put things off. Perhaps it’s a fear of failure. Or maybe you’re burned out and need to hit the pause button.
Conquering your goals should be as much about the journey as the destination. Embrace small victories and repeat what worked. Study setbacks to find out where you went wrong.
We Can Help You and Your Team Reach their Goals
Since 2008, ZDA has been helping supply chain teams reach their goals by providing them with talent acquisition solutions. Please contact us today to find out how we can help your team reach its goals for 2023.
