Do you have a New Year’s resolution this year? If so, you aren’t alone. Research shows that roughly 60 percent of us do, but only 8 percent of us will accomplish them. In 2020, a year that just screams perfect vision, try setting SMART goals instead of resolutions. SMART goals can be used for either personal or professional objectives. Simply ask yourself the following questions to make a SMART goal:
Is it Specific? Let’s say, your goal this year is “to grow in your career.” While it’s a nice sentiment, it’s too vague. Instead, you should flesh that sentence out to give it more meaning. For example, “I want to grow in my career by attending the AONL conference,” is a step in the right direction.
Is it Measurable? Now, while that above example is specific, it still doesn’t meet the requirements of a SMART goal yet. That’s because it isn’t measurable. Adding a metric to your goal will help you stay focused and motivated. Keeping in line with our example, you could write down, “I want to attend the AONL conference and participate in two nursing thought leader sessions this year.”
Is it Attainable? Whatever your goal is, it should be challenging, but not impossible to achieve. If your goal is too big, it’s easy to give up. Likewise, if it is too easy, you won’t necessarily be motivated to do it.
Is it Relevant? If your goal is important to you, you’ll be much more likely to make sure you achieve it.
Is it Timely? Remember to give yourself a timeline. If you don’t, the likelihood of you accomplishing your goal is slim. Deadlines make a goal seem more real and can give you the kick you need to start your project.
Ready, set, go achieve your SMART goals! And have a happy New Year!