Play It SMART
Use the SMART acronym to help you develop goals that will push you over the finish line.
Specific - Your goals must be specific. This means that you must point out with clarity and detail exactly what it is that you would like to achieve, and the more detail, the better the results. Here, you are determining the “what” element. The “how” element is a work in progress that you will develop at a later time.
Measurable - Your goals must be measurable. Spend time developing criteria and tools that you will use to measure your progress towards the attainment of your goals.
Action-Focused - Your goals must be attainable. You must believe that you can achieve your goals, and they must be within reach. If you don't believe in the goals you set, then your goals are nothing more than fleeting wishes or dreams that you’ll long for but never attain.
Realistic - Your goals must be realistic. This means that logically — given your time, money, resources, and level of skill — you will be able to achieve these goals successfully. If any of these is lacking, then you either need to improve your time, financial situation, skills, and resources or simply set a different set of goals. But always aim high.
Time-Bound - Your goals must be timed. You must set a deadline for the achievement of your goals and objectives. Without clear deadlines, you are growing the seeds of procrastination within your mind. Don’t fall into this trap.
Writing the smaller goals of your larger goals on a daily basis is an effective way to keep them at the forefront of your mind. You can do this by creating a list
based on your goal-setting worksheet, which you developed at the beginning of the goal-setting process for each MRT area goal.
This will help you gain new insight and understanding as well as keep you focused on what’s most important to you that that day.
This focus won’t be random, it’ll follow the goal plan you developed earlier.
It is easy to lose focus when things get hectic and out of hand. At these times, it’s important to get back to basics and to focus upon the process of achieving your
goals.
This is best accomplished when you have creative goal reminders you can refer to throughout the day. For example, using magazine photos and text pasted on poster
board, create a collage that represents the passionate goals you have set for yourself.
Create a catchy phrase for your key goal and repeat it to yourself every time you open a door, anywhere, any time, all day.
Why do 53 of the best football players in the world (pick any National Football League team) need a coach? Does Payton Manning — considered by many to be one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL — really need a coach? Why would former Major League Baseball player Ken Griffey Jr., considered one of the best hitters of his time, need a hitting coach? Shouldn’t he be coaching the coach? Professional athletes, indeed, anyone who performs at the peak of their ability, usually excel by having a personal coach at their side.
Whether it is playing a musical instrument or hitting a baseball 450 feet, individuals obtain excellence by having a trusted and competent coach to help them navigate through the trials and roadblocks that will inevitability occur. You must do likewise.
Include your coach
Build a relationship with a friend, coworker, or even your supervisor that allows them to coach you. As you write down your goals on the Goal Setting Worksheet, record the name of your personal coach and take the time and effort to include your coach in the process. Doing so will help you remain accountable while performing at your best.
Name of Coach:_______________
Priority Areas (one to four or more):
Example: I am the Complete Warrior
Caring Father and Role Model for Son
Compassionate and Dedicated Husband
Strong and Supremely Fit
Best SOLDIER/ OFFICER in Year Group