Goal-setting is a useful skill so you can strive towards an objective and have motivation for it. Using the SMART goal framework sets boundaries and defines the steps you’ll need to take, resources necessary to get there and milestones that indicate progress along the way.
SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.
A SMART Goal must be:
- Specific in what is being planned for
- Measurable in progress so you can reevaluate if necessary
- Attainable within a certain time frame
- Relevant to what you are planning for in the long-term
- Time-based by having a realistic date for completion
Here are some examples of SMART Goals:
- Pick up another project to improve career development in students and develop skills in written communication that can help promote these ideas in the next 6 months.
- Grow my network by having at least one call/conversation each week on average this semester with an external professional contact.