Attainable in SMART goals means that the goal should be achievable and realistic, requiring you to figure out ways to realize that goal and work towards it. In other words, the goal should be challenging, but still within reach given your resources, time, and abilities.
Understanding Attainability
The "A" in SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) is crucial because it bridges the gap between ambition and reality. An attainable goal isn't necessarily easy, but it is possible.
Key Aspects of Attainability:
- Resources: Do you have the necessary resources (financial, human, tools, etc.) to achieve the goal?
- Skills: Do you possess the skills required, or can you acquire them within the timeframe?
- Time: Is there enough time to reasonably complete the goal?
- Effort: Are you willing to put in the necessary effort and dedication?
- Achievability with Stretch: The goal should stretch your abilities, but not to the breaking point. It should be defined well enough that you can actually achieve it.
Examples of Making Goals Attainable:
Let's say your original, broad goal is: "Become a successful entrepreneur." This isn't particularly attainable in its current form.
Here's how you might refine it to be more attainable using the SMART framework:
| Aspect | Refinement |
|---|---|
| Specific | Start a niche e-commerce store selling handmade jewelry. |
| Measurable | Achieve \$1,000 in sales within the first 3 months. |
| Attainable | Research suppliers, create an online store using Shopify, and implement a social media marketing strategy with a limited ad budget. This is an attainable first step. |
| Relevant | Aligns with passion for jewelry making and interest in business. |
| Time-Bound | Launch the store within 1 month and achieve sales target in 3 months. |
By breaking down a large, abstract goal into smaller, more manageable steps, you increase its attainability and create a clear path to success.
Why is Attainability Important?
Setting attainable goals is essential for maintaining motivation and avoiding discouragement. When goals are too far-fetched, they can lead to frustration and ultimately, abandonment. By ensuring your goals are realistic, you set yourself up for success and build momentum towards achieving even greater things in the future.
