How to Set Goals

Research on goal setting has found that translating a few subconscious goals into written (explicit) goals provides direction and motivation for better outcomes for individuals, teams, and organizations. Individuals can use personal goals to direct their efforts and achieve greater success in their careers, health, and family. Teams and organizations can use shared goals to direct their efforts, set expectations, support reviews, and be more successful. Leaders and coaches can use goals to help individuals and teams direct their efforts and achieve greater success. This tutorial explains how to create "SMART" (Specific, Measurable, Aligned, Realistic, and Time specific) goals. This tutorial also presents a complete analysis of leading practices for setting goals. The tutorial ends with a one-page summary suitable for use as a handout.