Get better at goal setting
Beyond SMART Goals
An identity-driven framework for sustainable goal setting
We've all heard of SMART Goals. There are tons of templates online for that framework. It’s a popular option because it works. But starting there is like trying to enter a marathon mid way through and not knowing whether you are even on the racecourse at all.
Instead, clever people like James Clear, author of Atomic Habits encourage us to think upstream of how to effectively set goals and consider why? If we want to get better at achieving our goals in a sustainable way, we need to practice starting with defining our goals from the viewpoint of who we want to be, not what we want to do. Or, as Clear suggests on his blog, "Outcomes are about what you get. Processes are about what you do. Identity is about what you believe."
“Outcomes are about what you get. Processes are about what you do. Identity is about what you believe.”
Get to the why first
Try this simple exercise to tease out some key identity drivers. All you have to do is complete at least one of the following sentences:
"I am/I want to be the type of person who is the best at …"
"When people need someone who crushes it at … I want them to think of me"
"I am someone who values/prioritizes/is true to/deeply cares about ...
Dig a Little Deeper
Next, have a go at brainstorming some core principles and values that align with that identity. Let's say your core identity driver is a desire to become "the type of person who is admired for their servant leadership". Some examples of core values and principles for this identity might include: accountability, empathy, humility, continuous learning, collaboration, inclusivity, active listening, adaptability and visionary influence. Any one of these can be a great anchor to ensure that a goal matters to you.
Make it actionable
Try this template. Set a meaningful goal. Break it down. Chase it. Achieve it. Reward the small win. Rinse and repeat.
Parting thoughts
The example above is clearly oriented to personal life goals, but the framework can easily be adapted to organizational and team goals as well. Depending on the scale of the organization it might just mean a little (or a lot) more work to refine and articulate core values.
Want some help with this?
Gimme a shout! I love helping teams create robust and sustainable road maps to success.
TL;DR
By shifting the focus from what we want to do to who we want to be, we tap into a deeper motivation that aligns with our values and drives more meaningful and sustainable goal-setting practices.
Center goals around the things that define your core identity
Don't waste time chasing goals that do not align with your values
After you've done the soul-searching/brainstorming to identify the drivers behind your goal, use this template to sketch out steps to achieve it.