What does the acronym SMART stand for in goal setting?

The acronym SMART in goal setting is commonly defined as Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. This framework is designed to provide clear guidelines for setting effective and achievable goals.

• Specific means that the goal should be clear and unambiguous, detailing exactly what is to be accomplished.

• Measurable refers to the ability to track progress and measure the outcome, allowing you to quantify the extent of success or the degree of accomplishment.

• Attainable emphasizes that the goal should be within reach and feasible for the individual or group, ensuring that it is challenging yet achievable.

• Realistic asserts that the goal should be relevant to the individual's overall objectives and grounded in reality, considering available resources and constraints.

• Timely underscores the importance of setting a deadline or timeframe for achieving the goal, which helps to maintain focus and urgency.

This combination ensures that goals are not vague or unrealistic, but structured in a way that enhances motivation and increases the likelihood of success.