Specific (S)
Write down your goal — and be specific about your SMART GOAL.  For example, "I’m going to get a new 
job" is not a specific goal.  A specific goal identifies your target such as "I’m going to get a job as a retail 
sales associate that will allow me live near a ski resort."  Think of as many details as you can about your 
goals.  As you add details about your goal, you feel excitment and energy that helps you to get started.
Measurable (M)
Include details about your goal that can be measured so that you can monitor (check up on) your progress 
towards meeting the goal.  For example, "I will be a better student" is not measurable.  "For the next 30 
days, I will complete my math homework and turn it in by the due date" is a measurable goal.
Attainable & Realistic (AR)
Goals need to be attainable (not too hard to reach) and realistic (possible to reach).  For example, "I will 
get a job that pays $25 per hour by next Friday" may not be attainable (doable) since you may not 
have the skills to earn this pay — or not realistic since there may not be job openings that 
pay $25 per hour.  When you set a goal and meet it, reward yourself for a job well done 
(such as going to a special restaurant).  If you cannot meet the goal, rewrite a new 
goal that is doable and real and will bring you success.  Each goal's success 
brings you a step closer to your long-term goal.
Timely (T)
Set a deadline dates to reach each step of your goal.  For example:   
Step #1—  I will complete my associate degree in Computer Technology by June 30. 
Setp #2 — I will talk to a computer teacher and computer technician by July 15 to find out about the job. 
Step #3—  I will complete my picture perfect resume by July 30.  
Step #4 — I will find job openings on the internet and at the Career Center at my college by  August 15.
Step #5—  I will apply for 2 computer technology jobs by August 30.
Quick Check:
1.  List the five words for the letters: S, M, A, R, T.
2.  Give an example of: a) What is NOT a specific goal.  b) What is a specific goal.
3.  a) How do you feel as you add details your goal?  b) What does this motivate you to do?
4.  a) Why must details about your goal be measurable?  b) Give one example of a measurable goal.
5.  a) Give an example of unrealistic goal.  c) Do you think unrealistic goals can be harmful for a person?
6.  a) If you succeed in a goal, what should you do?  b) What should you do if you cannot meet the goal?
7.  In your opinion, why is it important to set deadline dates to reach each step of your goal?
8.  List the 8 stair steps to success according to the illustration.
9.  a) Write down a SMART GOAL for you.  b) Is your Smart Goal attainable and realistic?  
  c) What is the deadline date to reach your Smart Goal?	
SMART GOALS
U.S. Work World
CAREER mini-lesson
College & Career Publishing. Permission to use with usworkworld.com subscription.