S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting

This method is used by many people for setting better goals that we can achieve.  

• Specific: You should be clear about what you want to happen
• Not Specific: I want to make good grades.
• Specific: I want to have a 93 average in science by May 26, 2012.

• Measurable: You should be able to track your goal.
• Not Measurable: I want to make a lot of free throw shots.
• Measurable: I want to make at least 9 out of 10 free throw shots in the next basketball game.

• Action: What small specific actions must you take to achieve this goal?
• Wrong: In order to make a 93 average in science by May 26, 2012, I must study.
• Right: In order to make a 93 average in science by May 26, 2012, I must read over my science notes every night for 20 minutes.

• Realistic:  Can you achieve these goals?  Are they doable?
• Unrealistic: I want to make 200 free throw shots in one game.
• Realistic: I want to make 8 out of 10 of the free throw shots that I attempt.

• Time: You should set a time frame for your goal.
• No Time: I want to learn to play the piano.
• Time: I want to learn to play "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" by June 3rd, 2012.