PAGE CONTENTS
(1) Turning your intentions into action
(2) Useful online resources
(3) Related pages
(1) Turning your intentions into action: The importance of setting goals that work, by Nelson Binggeli, PhD
Common goals people make might be statements such as “I want to get good grades" or “I want to get more exercise.” The problem with these goals is that they are too vague. They don't specify the actual behaviors the person will engage in, they don't describe where and when these behaviors will take place, and they do not provide a benchmark for evaluating whether the person is on track in meeting their goal.
In the personal effectiveness literature, goals that work are often referred to as "SMART goals." "SMART" is an acronym for the first letter of each characteristic of effective goals.
S – Specific: Specify the actual behaviors you will engage in.
M – Measurable: Specify the outcome in measurable terms.
A – Attainable: The goal should be realistic given your resources and other responsibilities.
R – Relevant and rewarding: The goal should be something that is worth doing.
T – Time-bound: Specify a deadline and the specific times when you will work toward the goal.
(2) Useful online resources
Psychology Today: How to set goals
Mind Tools: Personal Goal Setting
Forbes Magazine: Ten things you should know about goals
(3) Related pages