The evidence is in: Goals make us better. Without any other fancy-schmancy strategies, setting goals makes it more likely we’ll achieve them. Unfortunately, most of us, most of the time, set poor goals and fail to make scientifically-informed plans to achieve them. We could be smarter. . . at least when it comes to goal-setting and planning.  

SMART goals are commonly attributed to Peter Drucker—a renowned management consultant, Austrian immigrant, and author of 39 books. Drucker is one of the most important thought leaders in business management. Using Drucker’s principles, back in 1981, George T. Doran published a paper in Management Review titled, “There’s a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management’s goals and objectives.” Although many variations exist, SMART goals are typically defined as: 

S = Specific 

M = Measurable 

A = Achievable or Assignable 

R = Relevant or Realistic 

T = Time-bound 

Drucker and Doran were writing from a business management perspective, but smart goals are intrinsic to counseling, psychotherapy, and personal growth. William Glasser (2000) and Robert Wubbolding (2011), described variations of smart goals in reality therapy. The philosophy of Glasser and Wubbolding is common sense: “Your goals should be within your control.” Put differently, if you identify goals that depend on other people behaving in ways you want them to, frustration and other problems will inevitably ensue. 

For now, keep in mind that goal-setting—although a highly effective personal growth strategy—can be fraught with frustration. Imagine the athlete or musician who focuses exclusively on perfection. Although perfect performances may be aspirational, when reality sets in and the performance is less than perfect—as it always will be—frustration and disappointment ensue. Realistic and SMART goal-setting, along with self-compassion for facing failure, is a healthier road to success.  

Locke and Latham are scientists who studied effective goal-setting. Their goal-setting principles are similar, but different from Drucker’s. Locke and Latham wrote that good goals are (a) clear, (b) challenging, (c) something you can commit to, (d) give you performance feedback, and (e) complex (simple goals may not sustain your interest). Locke and Latham’s recommendations may add to your goal-setting process.  

For this activity, identify a SMART, achievable goal within your control. Then, in contrast to how Americans approach New Year’s Resolutions, develop an excellent plan for accomplishing your goals. Here are some planning tips: 

1. Our brains are imperfect and so you should develop a sticky-note or smart-phone reminder system to aid you in remembering to implement your plan. 

2. Be very aware of the small and simple behaviors that lead toward your goal. For example, if healthier eating is your goal, when you drink a green smoothie instead of eating pound cake, stop, and immediately give yourself a “high-five” or anything physical to celebrate your very small accomplishment. Even better, say “Yesssssss!” or “Oh yeah!” aloud. Your self-reinforcement should be immediate and noticeable. If your goal is to get a school paper or work project done on time (instead of procrastinating) do a little dance, clap your hands, or sing a few lines from a celebratory song right after you power up your computer and open the document you want to work on. You may need to keep doing this every 5 to 15 minutes to give your brain the neurochemical push to make avoiding procrastination a habit.  

3. Link your challenging “goal” behaviors with something pleasant. The best example I ever heard of was a student in my happiness class who developed and sustained a running routine because she would only let herself listen to her favorite music when she was running.  

4. Get a goal-setting partner. Usually, we all do better with social support.  

5. Consider going public with your goal and plans. Usually, we all do better with social support. 

Because there’s evidence that going public with well-thought-out goals and plans can enhance goal attainment, to the extent that you’re comfortable, please share your goals/plans on social media, encourage others to do so, and support them in their goal-setting efforts.  

In the meantime, happy goal-setting! 

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Dr. John Sommers-Flanagan, University of Montana