We have explored specific, measurable, achievable and realistic goal setting. Using the SMART model, the last step, and possibly the most important, is to strengthen commitment through setting timely goals.

The last step in our series on goal setting is to create timely goals. When you begin setting goals using the SMART model, the requirement to set specific goals sometimes sets a timeframe. Also, by making a goal measurable, you’ll require a timeframe. But let’s look at the reasons to require a specific timeline. You must have a commitment to a goal in order to accomplish it. We’ve discovered that by setting realistic goals, commitment grows. By adding a specific timeline, you can ensure continued commitment. What are the changes you would like to make? Have you set timely goals to ensure you can make those changes?

Let’s look at a personal development goal: you’ve always wanted to take an oil-painting course. If you say the goal is to take a painting course, you can do it anytime. Or, you can put this goal on the bottom of your to-do list - it’s one of those things you may or may not get around to doing. But if you add a specific timeline, such as take the course by July 31, you’re automatically putting this goal on the top of your list. It’s something you’ll have to face every day for the next six months if you want to accomplish it. When there is no time limit, there is no sense of urgency. It’s that simple. Make sure that the time limit is reasonable given your ability, skills, and willingness. But by going through the other steps of the SMART model, you’re setting yourself up to have a real goal with an attainable timeline.

What about professional goals? If you’re setting goals for yourself or your employees, you must include a timeline. Increasing sales by 15% is a great goal. But imagine the response you’ll get if you say “we’re going to increase sales by 15% by October 31″. You’ll create a sense of urgency - the sales goal will be at the top of the list. As we’ve seen with measurable goals, timelines can also be broken down to make them even more achievable. Instead of increasing sales 15% by October 31, set a goal to increase by 5% by the end of the first quarter, 5% by the end of the second, and 5% by the end of the third. When you combine a timely goal with one that is specific, measurable, achievable, and realistic, you’ll gain commitment and also set up a goal that works for individuals and organizations.

Setting goals can be a difficult task. It’s hard to determine what goals should be and what they should consist of, especially if you have to set goals for yourself and a team. By using the SMART model, you’ll remind yourself to set specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely goals on a consistent basis. When you do this, you’re setting goals that gain commitment, give encouragement, and ensure that everyone involved feels a sense of accomplishment. Now that you’ve been through each step of the SMART model, take out your list of goals and rewrite them, paying close attention to each SMART requirement. If you haven’t written goals, take the time to write them right away - the changes you want to make in your life, both professionally and personally, are just five steps away.

This is Part 5 of the 5-part series on Savvy Goal Setting.