You have set goals that are specific. Using the SMART model, the next step is to make goals measurable. As you know, goal setting is a skill that can be utilized in both personal and professional environments. If you practice efficient goal-setting in both areas, you’ll be able to accomplish more - and make the changes you want to make in all areas of your life. For the second part of our series on the SMART model, let’s look at making goals measurable. Again, as you progress through the series, think about the areas you want to change and actively work with goals from those areas. Let’s look at a career goal: say you want to find a new position this year. When you make the goal specific, you’ll answer the questions who, what, where, when, which, and why. To make a goal measurable, it’s necessary to answer a few more questions.

You’ve defined the specifics of finding your new job, so the next important measurement will be to define how to know when the goal is achieved. It’s simple to say that you’re going to be in your new job by December 31 - that does put a measurement or timeline on the goal. But to ensure your commitment, try adding timelines or benchmarks to help you accomplish the goal. Do you need to take a course, revise your resume, or get in touch with a headhunter? You’ve answered these questions by making the goal specific - but don’t just leave the answers to chance. So make your goal measurable by adding that you’ll revise your resume by February 3, contact the headhunter by March 1, and post your new resume on three websites by March 15. By grading your goal out, you’ve ensured your commitment - and your ability to reward yourself for achieving benchmarks that lead you to the ultimate accomplishment.

When you use the SMART model in a business environment, you’re setting goals that can be measured by everyone involved. Measurable goals also establish a means for regular communication between employees and managers. For instance, if an employee’s goal is to increase manufacturing productivity by 8% by December 31, benchmark dates during the time period offer a chance to discuss how things are going, what corrections need to be made, and what good work needs to be recognized.

From this perspective, consider the feeling of accomplishment you’ll have when you’re able to meet benchmarks along the way. And when you reach the final goal, you’ll be able to congratulate yourself on a major accomplishment. Now think about the goals you want to achieve in your life - the things you’d like to change. Have you set measurable goals? Take a few minutes right now to make your goals measurable. By using the SMART model, you’ll provide yourself with the motivation to continue working hard toward attainable goals - and making desired changes in your life.

Look for Part 3 of this 5-part series on Savvy Goal Setting.