SMART Goals and Why You Need Them

As a business owner, it can be really scary when you are planning for the future. Every decision you make impacts on another part of the business, which means another decision. As more decisions are made the hope of a fantastic business, turns into fears and insecurities, wondering what could go wrong.

It’s important to note that all business owners have been there at some point. Every business owner has gone through the ‘what if’ thought process and thought of the very worst-case scenario. So, how can you get a handle on this? With SMART goals.

SMART goals break down all your big plans into small, more manageable steps. A SMART goal is designed to be set in stone. It’s something you work towards and strive to achieve over a certain period of time.

What Is A SMART Goal?

We all set ourselves goals, in every part of life and business. Goals are created to provide direction, motivation, focus, and clarity. By setting a goal you are providing yourself with a target that you need to aim for. However, a SMART goal is different. A SMART goal is used as a guide to help you set yourself the perfect goal. Think of a SMART goal as a ‘next level’ goal.

A SMART goal incorporates the following criteria to help you focus your efforts in the right place. In turn, the SMART goal helps increase the chances of achieving your goal.

Specific

Measurable

Achievable

Realistic

Timely

THE IMPORTANCE OF SETTING A SMART GOAL

Very often business owners will set themselves up for failure by setting goals that are unrealistic. One example of an unrealistic goal commonly set by business owners is “I want to be the best at X”. The issue with this goal is that it is vague. This goal has no sense of direction, so how can you achieve it?

The great thing about a SMART goal is that it sets you up for success. A SMART goal is specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. By using this idea behind ‘SMART’ goals you will be able to push yourself further in the right direction. You will gain a sense of direction. Having a SMART goal will help you organise yourself to ensure you reach your goals.

WHY ARE SMART GOALS SO EFFECTIVE?

SMART goals are effective because they provide the clarity, focus, and motivation that is needed to achieve your goals. A SMART goal improves your ability to reach it, by encouraging you to define your objections and really think about what you want to achieve.

A SMART goal also has a completion date, so you know you must work towards the goal and by when.

If you’d like some support with your SMART goals then why not contact me today to see how I can help?