Setting SMART Objectives

The difference between desire and objective

Goal setting is a technical skill that differentiates the dreamer from the achiever. Following the model of Dr. Edwin Locke, a pioneer in the theory of goal motivation , we use the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Challenging, Time-bound) criteria.

The first mistake made in sport is to confuse a desire with a goal. A desire is vague: "I want to improve my results".

A SMART goal is surgical: "I want to place in the top 5 in the next national championship". This specificity forces the brain to focus and chart a clear path.

If you don't define exactly what you want, your energy is dispersed and progress becomes impossible to eva luate.

The goal as a building tool

It is useful to consider the design of objectives not as the ultimate goal, but as a construction tool, similar to a craftsman's hammer.

A good craftsman does not bring out the hammer at the beginning; he first studies the plans, cuts the wood and prepares the ground.

Similarly, the coach should not force goal setting at the beginning of the relationship without first exploring the context, values and strengths of the athlete.

The SMART goal serves to "nail down and tie together" the different pieces of the athlete's sporting and personal life into a coherent project.

If goals are set that are disconnected from the athlete's identity or values, they will lack the traction needed to sustain through difficult times

Strategic alignment and greater purpose

For goals to be truly effective, they must be designed within a strategic context that includes a "greater cause."

It's not just about winning a medal, but aligning that achievement with the individual's unique gifts and abilities.

A well-designed goal under the SMART model acts as an organizer of daily behavior.

It allows the athlete to discriminate which activities move him or her closer to the goal and which move him or her further away.

By having an expiration date and clear metrics, the goal introduces a positive creative tension that mobilizes internal and external resources toward achieving the desired outcome.

Summary

The technical design of objectives differentiates the dreamer from the achiever through specific, measurable and challenging criteria. It is vital not to confuse a vague desire with a surgical objective.

This tool should be used after exploring the athlete's context and values to ensure consistency. Goals disconnected from identity lack traction in difficult times.

A well-designed SMART goal organizes daily behavior and facilitates discriminating productive activities. It introduces a positive creative tension that mobilizes internal resources toward the desired outcome.