“What is measured, improves.” That was the best foundational guidance given by a former COO of mine. Under his crash course of management, we learned that measured success always begins with a strategic goal and a well thought out plan.
Choosing the Right Goal Setting Framework
Tips for Effective Goal Setting
Choosing the Right Goal Setting Framework
In sales management and operations teams across various organizations, our stretch goals came in different forms: OKR (Objectives & Key Results), SMART (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Results, Timely), and BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), just to name a few common frameworks.
Varying acronyms, but fundamentally similar in philosophy. What it came down to is that goals were mapped as strategic plans with measurable results. You need to write down your goals and track progress against them. They need to be realistic and achievable. You’re able to unlock many personal achievements when you apply goal setting to your personal life.
The Ladder Approach
The right framework was a combination across multiple, the best in class versions to make the greatest impact. For me, the ladder method was a great combination and focusing on small digestible steps that ladder to the overall objective.
Combining SMART and OKR method principles, the Ladder Approach defines desired outcomes (objectives) having a well thought out plan broken out into tactical goals—in other words, SMART key results. This approach also ensures you achieve what you set out to accomplish and provides a structured approach for tracking progress, blockers & rewards.
Tips for Effective Goal Setting
If it doesn’t light you up, pick another goal. The reality is we can create goals that are too easy or do not spark joy or motivation. Figure out the goals that are worthwhile and that align with your purpose and connect with the “why” behind your goals. Your purpose is what drives your motivation, this can be big or small. Imagine yourself achieving that goal and if it elicits a positive response, it’s worth pursuing. Goals generally fail because you lacked the commitment and the desire in the first place.
Limit ambitious goals to the Power of 3. Crafting goals requires practice and practice makes perfect. Craft your goals and make them ambitious enough to keep you engaged, but not so far fetched that you will undoubtedly fail. You won’t get it right out of the gate, but your goal setting ability is one you will continue to refine as you go. Also, make sure to minimize the number of goals to ensure focus. We rely on the Power of 3 (maximum of 3 goals) to allow you to focus on your prioritized goals and ensure you achieve them.
Be specific and commit to a check in plan. Write down your goals and be specific on how you will measure success alongside specific target deadlines. Include quantifiable goals as a baseline and continue to increase the targets for improvement if desired. It’s also important to outline check in dates for measurement and stick to them.
Solidify, share and talk about your goals. Write down your goals and make sure that they are viewable. This can be as a screensaver or placed within view on your desk. I also like to share my goals with friends or family so they can hold me accountable. Be sure to share your progress to keep them top of mind. In the workplace, goals are usually tracked on a continual basis and reviewed on a set schedule. Pick the approach that works for you to keep your goals top of mind.
Reward yourself and continue to set new goals. Set mini goals and have a reward schedule for attainment. This allows you to build your goal setting muscle and refine your approach, but also leveraging positive reinforcement for success. More importantly, continue to set new goals! Gamify your approach and make it a part of your life schedule, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
A Blueprint for Your Success
For us, goal setting is transformational when you use it in conjunction with visualization exercises such as vision boards, writing exercises or meditation. A plan coupled with visualization allows you to manifest your desired future. The most important thing is to find the strategy that best works for you and stay committed to hitting your goals!
Want to learn more about how to integrate goal setting and visualization exercises? Check out our Goal Setting workbook (button below) that brings all you need to know about goal setting to the forefront. Feel free to email questions to etsy@rocketrygroup.com.
