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Writing Effective Goal Statements

Here’s an easy exercise for writing down effective goals that fit into the S.M.A.R.T. format (i.e., Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time Bound). There are four basic steps in the process:

The first part starts off with an action-verb…”increase, develop, obtain, complete, etc.”
Follow this up with a statement of nouns – what it is you will impact.
Next, include a time-bounded statement of accountability
Finally, add a statement about what the outcome will achieve for you.

For more on writing SMART goals watch this video. Original source for this approach to writing SMART Goals can be found here.

My Records

Comprehend Results

Writing the Goal Statement

Use the following format to make it easier to write the goal statement:

Note: Here is an completed example:

To increase
Revenue 25%
By the end of the 4th fiscal quarter
So that we may re-invest that money into the organization to improve member services by hiring additional quality staff.

Action Verb

What

Quantifiable and Measurable Statement

Time-Bounded "Deadline"

So That

What The Outcome Will do for You

Final Goal Statement

From the fields above, combine your goal statement below into a complete sentence.

Goal Statement Follow-up

The obvious follow-on to the goal statement is answering the question “How?” Answer this question by crafting specific strategies and tactics to insure the achievement of the goal. Be creative and consider different perspectives. You have written a powerful goal statement and you know exactly what it is that you want. That should fuel your success and provide the motivation for overcoming obstacles that will come up along the way.

For more information about developing strategies and tactics, see What is the Difference between a Strategy and a Tactic?

Writing Effective Goal Statements

Writing the Goal Statement

Goal Statement Follow-up

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