Moving beyond SMART Goals to Start MASTERING GOALS

Mission-driven

Make sure all your goals are aligned with the mission. Don’t worry about making the high level goals measurable.

It’s difficult to create aspirational goals with tons of metrics. Focus on tying your top goals to purpose and then set measurable metrics which indicate success.

 

Accountable

Goals without accountability built in and around them are destined to fail. Be very clear about what accountability looks like at all levels. Establish and schedule specific dates for reviewing the key performance metrics.

Make sure it is clear what rewards or consequences look like as well.

 

Stretch

Easily attainable goals motivated no one ever. Make sure your goals are going to be at least a bit challenging and then have at least one Big Hairy Audacious Goal.

 

Teams/Tribes 

Creating team-based goals is critical in both personal and professional success. We are social beings with highly diverse skill sets. Leverage the strength of your tribe.

Designate a leader for specific projects/goals and you’ll see ownership and success go through the roof.

 

Exciting 

Do your goals get you excited? If not, dump them! Without enthusiasm toward the goals, they will likely get pushed back or aside for other priorities. 

Reflect 

Set up times, not just for measurement, but to discuss and really assess the relevance of your goals. It’s way better to modify, adapt, or drop a goal which is no longer relevant than to drag it along just because you set it at the beginning of the year.

 

Integrate 

Ensure individual goals integrated and aligned with the team and business goals. Take it a step further with integrating how achieving professional goals will impact their personal goals and aspirations.

 

Novel 

Are your goals new or unusual in an interesting way?

If not, spice them up!

Use language which captures hearts and minds. Name your goals so they are memorable and they will stay top of mind.

Generate 

Create a plan to reach your goals. Establish a framework and then bring the team in so they are invested and involved in the creation of the plan.

Create small, actionable, attainable steps (i.e., process goals, lead measures) which will begin moving you toward accomplishing the goals.

Make sure you include celebrations in your plan! Recognition and celebration of progress is HUGE to keep momentum going toward the big goal.