I have been reading a lot about goals having to follow the S.M.A.R.T. paradigm.
The S.M.A.R.T. stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-based.
Then, and sometimes in the same article, they say to shoot for the stars and end up at the moon. Does this mean you set an achievable goal and then failed?
The problem is they mix up goals and objectives. Goals and objectives are different, and they result from two different mindsets.
Goals come from a visioning, possibilities, mindset. Goals are meant to be the things we aim for, but that we don’t necessarily know how to get there. It is where they shoot for the stars saying is right. Dream big, create gaols that you are inspired to pursue.
Goals are the broad primary outcomes you want in your life.
Objectives come from a planning, methodical mindset. Objectives are the piece you need to put into place to create your goal.
Objectives, therefore, follow the S.M.A.R.T. paradigm.
Once you untangle what goals are and what objectives are, it frees you up to move forward.
When visioning your goals you don’t need to worry about what’s possible or achievable, you can simply dream and create what you want.
When you are creating objectives, you still don’t need to know how to get to the goal. All you need is one objective to move you forward. Once that objective is achieved, you can find more. Eventually, you will get to your goal.
For many people, this distinction allowed them to dream again. Before, they felt as if they should know how to achieve their goal. If the goal was big and they didn’t understand, they became deflated and stopped creating goals.
Focus on creating and achieving objectives. Objectives are what move your forward. The collection of objectives is your journey towards your goal.