What does the acronym SMART stand for in goal setting?

The acronym SMART in goal setting stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework is designed to help individuals and organizations create clear and attainable goals.

The aspect of being specific means that goals should be well-defined and clear, leaving no room for ambiguity. Measurable indicates that one should be able to track progress and determine when the goal has been achieved. Achievable suggests that the goal should be realistic and attainable, considering available resources and constraints. Relevant indicates that the goal should matter to the individual or organization and align with broader objectives. Finally, Time-bound means that the goal should have a defined deadline, providing a sense of urgency and a timeframe for completion.

While other options might include similar concepts related to goal setting, they don't perfectly encapsulate the SMART criteria. For instance, while "Attainable" and "Realistic" are often used interchangeably with "Achievable" and "Relevant," the precise wording in the accepted SMART framework emphasizes clarity and effectiveness in setting goals.