Bible teaching about SMART goals

If goal setting was important for Jesus, it must also be key for you and me. SMART goals will lead you to achievement and success. The acronym, SMART, goes as follows.

The “S” stands for specific. To achieve a goal, you need to have it clear in your mind what you want to achieve. Vague goals are like sprinting headlong into a fog – you have no idea what you will run into.

The “M” stands for measurable. You need something to let you know when you reach your goal. You also need markers to measure your progress.

The “A” is attainable. Sure, wouldn’t we all like to make a million dollars next year, but most of us won’t. The idea is to set goals that are reasonable, and then stretch them a bit. If they are not reachable, then discouragement will visit you when you fail.

The “R” points to realistic, or, relevant. Two ideas: you must be willing and able to expend energy, time, and expense toward the goal. Since I am now over 70, it is not realistic for me to try out for the Olympics! Neither am I willing to try.

Second, your goal should be relevant, or directed toward your overall objective. For example, if you want to be a lawyer, then taking 17 courses in Hindu basket weaving will not get you any closer to your overall objective.

The “T” refers to time. The steps toward reaching your goal need to be tagged to time with definite deadlines. Otherwise, you will keep putting things off to tomorrow, but tomorrow never comes. At least that is how things work in my life.

Here is an example, let’s say you want to go to Manila to visit family. You now have a specific goal that is measurable: you bouncing in a Jeepney somewhere in Manila. Progress markers would be the list of what you need to do: buy a ticket, pack your clothes, buy the pasalubong, etc.

Is getting to Manila attainable? Sure, as long as you have the money and time. Is it realistic and relevant? Yes, because you are willing and able to go, and it fits with your overall goal of visiting family and friends.

The last step in your SMART goal is to tie your schedule to a timetable. Determine your destination date. List your steps, and prioritize. Link them to time on a calendar. Take action. Finally, brace yourself for a long airplane ride over the ocean.

Dr. Newman teaches at Faith Evangelical Seminary, Tacoma. He and Esmie have a website: www.Bible-teaching-about.com. It includes an online Bible academy, free Bible studies, affordable ebooks, and you can send in any Bible questions you want answers to. You can purchase their books on Amazon.com.

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