What does the acronym SMART stand for in goal setting?

The acronym SMART in goal setting stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework is widely used to create clear and attainable goals, ensuring that objectives are well-defined and structured.

Specific means that the goal is clear and unambiguous, detailing exactly what is to be achieved. Measurable indicates that there are criteria to assess progress and determine when the goal has been met. Achievable signifies that the goal is realistic and attainable, considering available resources and constraints. Relevant ensures that the goal aligns with broader objectives, thus maintaining focus on significant outcomes. Time-bound means that there is a defined deadline for accomplishing the goal, which helps motivate timely action and prioritization of tasks.

This combination of criteria promotes effective goal setting, enhancing the likelihood of success while providing a useful roadmap for achieving business or professional objectives. The other choices present different terms that do not accurately reflect the SMART framework, making them less suitable for effective goal setting.