Specific, Measurable, and Focused Goals

I recently read a newspaper article about a young lady who was inspired to climb Mount Everest in May 2010.  She said we all have an Everest and we all have to do what it takes to get to the top.  How did she make it to the top of Mount Everest and then back home safely?  She set goals.

Here’s is a brief summary of her goal setting process:

• Define your goal and outline a plan.
• Set a timeline.
• Think of what it takes to make it a reality.
• Focus and stay positive.

Her goal setting is similar to what you need to do to set goals for your business.  I always recommend to glass and glazing companies that annual goals do not exceed one type-written page - a one-page Strategic Plan that holds everyone in the company accountable for success. Your goals need to be:

• Specific and concise.  Generalities don’t get the message across to your employees.  Make sure your goals are easily understood.
• Measurable. Must be quantifiable. Goas need to be evaluated so you can determine if progress is being made. 
• Focused. Experience shows that three or four annual goals are ideal and more than five most likely cannot be accomplished.

Richard Voreis
Consulting Collaborative