In our lives, we definitely have targets and goals to achieve our dreams. Everyone has their own way and steps. There is a method that can make it easier for you to set targets, plans, and goals, namely the SMART Goals method. SMART for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound. This method existed in 1981 by George T. Doran.
What are the steps in making SMART Goals?
S (SPECIFIC)
When you have a target, you need to set a specific target. Make the target in detail, clear, and can be explained well.
General Target: I have to write often
Specific Target: I have to write often to improve my writing skills.
M (Measured)
If you have determined a certain goal, at this step it is Measurable. When setting goals, you have to make sure they are measurable. This can help you see progress in that direction.
At this step, you have to determine certain tasks such as what goals must be completed within a certain time.
A (Achievable)
This third method means that your goals must be realistic. You can design a lot of goals but you have to be able to make sure they can be achieved. So, pay attention to all aspects related to achieving your targets. Realistic goals are when you know how those goals can be realized with the abilities, resources, and opportunities you have. Therefore you must ask yourself how you achieve the goal and how realistic it can be achieved with your current condition.
R (Relevant)
When you make a target you need to have a relevant target meaning that if the target is achieved, then that target will have a positive impact on your long-term plan.
You can make this question :
- Is the goal useful?
- Is this the right time?
- Is this goal in line with your other needs?
- Does this suit your current condition?
T (Time-Bound goals)
In the last step, you have to determine the time limit for achieving your goals. This realistic time limit is needed in order to focus and be able to prepare sources of funds, energy, and time.
Benefits of the SMART Method
By using this method, the individual’s focus on the target that he plans will be optimal. With the goals that have been designed, it can encourage us to have the creativity to make strategies so that they can be achieved.
By doing goal-setting, of course, you will have clearer goals, so you can make decisions or carry out daily activities in a direction that is in line with these goals and no longer get confused.
SMART Method Example
You have a target to learn Content Writing. However, this target is too general, so you need to clarify it by implementing SMART.
Specific
First, find out if you really want to learn it. Connect your skills. For example, you want to be Content Writing on Medium.
Measurable
Next set measurable goals so you don’t feel ambiguous about achieving them.
For example, with a specific target, you know that that goal can be said to be achieved if you take courses on certain sites and have tried to write interesting content on your blog.
Achievable
To achieve your goals, you can take courses at XXX for one year and schedule 5 hours a week to practice these skills.
Relevant
Think about the career path you have and what you want and make sure your goals are aligned.
For example, learn to write content on your blog, you want to learn because you want to start a career as a freelancer.
Time-bond
It is important to keep these targets realistically based on your individual abilities. An example of this case is giving one year to understand how to become a content writer.
