Goal setting is considered one of the best ways to turn dreams into reality. Generally, goals are set in the following areas- academic, career, physical fitness, financial, business, relationships and so on. Goal setting is intended to increase motivation, improve productivity and achieve desired results. Very often we hear or read about setting SMART goals. SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely. While the SMART method is frequently touted as a logical process for goal setting, I find this technique overrated. Here’s why.
SMART goals provide a play-safe zone and create a sense of security as a lot of people are afraid to fail or even try. Although, SMART goals reduce the probability of disappointments they cap personal and professional growth. By downplaying the role of effort in achievement, the SMART tool fools people into believing that talent beats hard work therefore goals must be set depending on each individual’s level of ability. But is anyone absolutely sure of their level of ability? For, unless you stretch yourself, you won’t realize your true potential. Research studies have proved that people who increase efforts towards goal attainment are more likely to conquer difficult goals than people who rely on their abilities to achieve. For instance, a student or an employee who believes that effort produces superior output is more likely to put up a better performance than the one who believes that some special ability is required for achievement.
SMART goals fail to motivate and undermine human ingenuity. Think about it! Did SMART goals inspire scientist to make breakthrough inventions? Their ideas were criticized as unrealistic and unachievable. Nevertheless, persistence paid off. Their unrealistic goals yielded outstanding results. Successful innovators, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, salespersons and high achievers in various fields are often ridiculed for having insanely great and unreasonable goals. Yet, they choose to stay relentless no matter how long it takes and how many times they get knocked down.
People who achieve the impossible don’t worry about the foolishness of their ideas or the enormity of their goals. They simply follow the formula: vision + hard work + perseverance = success. To conclude, SMART goals are restrictive, insipid and limit human potential.
Definitely works for those who want to play it safe. But if you are keen on personal growth, set goals that encourage you to step out of your comfort zone – goals that ignite your spirit and test your limits.
The path to reaching your goals is not free of obstacles, mistakes and delays but the key is to keep pressing on. Don’t stop when naysayers, dream crushers and your own inner critic, question your ambition or ability to achieve your dreams. Remember, resistance builds strength. If you enjoy challenges and detest mediocrity, set your sights high fearlessly. As Maya Angelou puts it “If you always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.”
(The author is a Clinical Psychologist)
