The habit of setting high standard goals is kind of similar to the habit of gambling.
Some entrepreneurs have the habit to set very high standard goals for themselves. They know in the back of their minds, that the goals they set are unrealistic and unachievable. But they have the habit of aiming higher. What can be done?
I am not talking about vision. I am talking about goals.
High-standard goals are good if they are not unrealistic. In my entrepreneurship learning, I learned once you set a goal then your job is to achieve that goal 100%, not 80%.
In that sense, setting a goal beyond the limit and not achieving them is ultimately a failure. And when enough consistent failures happen it results in disappointment, lack of confidence, and even depression.
Unrealistic goals can be reached if only some miracle happens.
Instead, an entrepreneur can focus on building the habit of setting SMART goals.
- Specific = Well-defined, clear, and unambiguous
- Measurable = With specific criteria that measure your progress toward the accomplishment of the goal
- Achievable = Attainable and not impossible to achieve
- Relevant/Realistic = Within reach, realistic, and relevant to your purpose
- Time-bound = With a clearly defined timeline, including a starting date and a target date. The purpose is to create urgency
A SMART goal is designed to help guide goal setting. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant/Realistic and Time-bound.
Therefore, a SMART goal incorporates all of the criteria to help focus one’s efforts and increase the chances of achieving the goals. Go for 100%, not less!
