Welcome back! Last week, we wrapped up our first series of some ongoing lessons about what it means to have and build a personal brand. So, what’s next? Today, we’re here to teach you about the “SMART” goal acronym, what it means for you, and how you can apply it to your business or personal life. Keep reading to find out what we mean here…

SMART Goal Definition…

And synonyms.

• Specific (simple, sensible, significant).
• Measurable (meaningful, motivating).
• Achievable (agreed, attainable).
• Relevant (reasonable, realistic, and resourced, results-based).
• Timely (time-based, time-limited, time/cost limited, timely, time-sensitive). (from “MindTools”).

SMART Goal Application…

So, let’s start off with grabbing your closest notebook, planner, Google document, or another form of paper and write down some New Year focused goals. Are you focusing on your health? If so, maybe stating the number of times you plan to go to the gym, for a set amount of time to build muscle and achieve an increase in weights used is a nice place to start. If you’re seeking a job promotion in the next few months, then setting a goal to spend x amount of minutes extra completing additional work, asking for feedback x amount of times per week, or aiming to achieve the placement in 6 months are measurable ways to hold your goal accountable! One last example, if your priority for the year is to find a new position, networking with x amount of new people per week, engaging in x amount of coffee chats or informational interviews, or otherwise working to apply to x amount of jobs per week to achieve a new position by x date are great ways to start compiling a timeline to keep up with.

The most important aspect of goal creation is that it is a unique and individual journey for any person. Your goals will not be the same as the person next to you, as last year, or as next year.. and that’s okay! Creating and transcribing your goals at the beginning of this year is a great way to map out your next few months, creat a measure of accountability, and get excited about what’s to come.

Learn how to grow your following here!