Setting SMART Goals

Specificity:

Stating exactly, the target outcome results in terms of productivity rather than telling someone to “just do your best”

Measurability:

Measure progress and ask and give feed back in reference to the defined goal.

Feedback keeps you on track, telling you how much more or less effort is required for achieving your goal.

Acceptance:

When you set a goal, you have to accept it fully so its energizing properties can “kick in”

Realistic:

Realizing that, without exception, the more difficult the goal you set the greater the effort and commitment

Time bound:

Setting a time or deadline helps you stay on track toward meeting your goal.

Are these SMART goals?

1.      I want to learn how to do at least two swim strokes correctly by the end of the season.

2.      I will beat every swimmer I swim against this year regardless of age.

3.      I want to win the Olympics.

4.      I want to improve my best times to-date by improving my turns and doing them correctly in order to make a Zone time this season.

Answer:

(1) Yes it is a SMART Goal. Why? It is Specific, It is Measurable, It is Realistic and there is a Time deadline and Acceptance.

(2) And (3) are not SMART Goals! They are more a wish or dream. They do not contain the elements of SMART goals.   

(4) Yes it is a SMART Goal. Why? It is Specific, It is Measurable, It is Realistic and there is a Time deadline and Acceptance.

I hope this helps you in setting your personal goals. I ask that you share them with your coaches and make sure to include Mom & Dad. J

Parents: I encourage the setting of goals and ask that you help your child be realistic. Goals can and should be a positive thing. Be realistic and try not to set goals that create too MUCH pressure. The kids put enough pressure on themselves, add in coaches and parents and it can be an overload.

Best Regards!  Coach Al