Purpose-driven goal-setting is helpful in both your life and career. While there are many goal-setting approaches, weโll contrast two in this edition.
One of the most common goal structures is the SMART goals approach. SMART refers to: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It is a workable framework to achieve goals.
What ifโฆ thereโs a way to use the SMART structure and empower your success level?
There isโฆ Purpose-driven goals can get you there.
Purpose-Driven Goals Defined
Purpose-driven SMART goals add energy to the standard SMART structure. They add a deeper sense of purpose, value, and contribution. Together, purpose-driven SMART is a well-defined roadmap. They connect your objectives to your core beliefs, passions, and the positive impact you are aiming for.
In a 2011 Harvard Business Review study, those who pursued goals aligned with personal values and purpose found increased motivation, resilience, and overall well-being.
Define Your Purpose
With purpose-driven SMART goals, itโs essential to understand and define your purpose. This reflective process involves thinking about your core values and things in life that excite you. This is a time to think big. What are three or four important values that identify who you are as a person?
SMART Purpose-Driven Steps
Donโt speed through these steps. The amount of thought and effort spent on each step is directly proportional to your successful results.
๐ต Start with the SMART framework. Clearly define your goal, ensuring it is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
๐ต Connect with Your Purpose. Align your goal with your core values and the positive impact you wish to create. Ask yourself, โHow does this goal contribute to my purpose and the greater good?โ
๐ต Visualize the Impact. Imagine you achieved your goal. Pay attention to how you feel when you consider the impact on your life and others. This visualization can serve as a powerful motivator. Your subconscious mind doesnโt know the difference between imagination and reality. When you can imagine and feel the positive results of your goal, your subconscious strengthens your confidence to accomplish it. This is a tool I frequently use to help clients reach new levels of success.
๐ต Break it Down. Divide your goal into smaller, actionable steps, each with its own timeline and measurable outcomes.
๐ต Celebrate Milestones. Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way, reinforcing your commitment and fueling your determination.
Pitfalls to Avoid
๐ Disconnected Goals. Make sure that your goals truly align with your purpose and values. Pursuing goals solely for external validation or societal expectations can undermine your motivation and fulfillment.
๐ Unrealistic Expectations. While ambition is admirable, setting unrealistic or unachievable goals can lead to frustration and demotivation. Regularly reevaluate and adjust your goals as needed, ensuring a balance between challenge and accomplishment.
๐ Progress Tracking. Regularly monitor and celebrate your progress to assist your motivation. Adjust your approach when necessary.
Combine the structure of SMART goals with the depth of purpose. You can then influence a power within that propels you toward meaningful accomplishments and enduring fulfillment. Consider purpose-driven SMART goals by aligning your objectives and core values to create new levels of self-discovery, growth, and positive impact.