Set 2018 TARGETS now

2018 is one month away. In the next 4 weeks you can learn my 4 secrets to make next year, your best year.

Let me start with goals, which I call TARGETs.

T.A.R.G.E.T. goals (a "TARGET" or "TARGETs") are clear, measurable objectives with due dates that are pursued systematically to completion with encouragement, assistance, and accountability.

The acronym T.A.R.G.E.T. helps you write a clear, measurable goal with a due date in a sentence that everyone understands. Here is a quick overview:

T        To (the preposition)

A        Action verb

RG      Realistic Goal to be achieved

E         Effectively measure whether the goal has been achieved

T         Time or date for the goal to be completed

TARGETs are consistent with the SMART method of goal writing, however, TARGETs are easier to write because the acronym TARGET defines how to write the objective in a sentence. 

Here is an example of a clear, measurable TARGET: 

To increase consultant utilization rates to 78 percent for the quarter. 

To begin:                         To

Action verb:                     increase*

Realistic Goal:                  consultant utilization rates

Effective measurement:   to 78 percent average

Time bound:                     for the quarter.

ADVICE: Drop the "To" at the beginning of the sentence after you define the TARGET. Starting a TARGET with an action verb challenges people whenever they read it. For example, the TARGET above becomes: 

Increase consultant utilization rates to 78 percent for the quarter.

ADVICE: Do not write goals negatively. For instance, the TARGET above could be written as a negative: Do not allow unbillable time to exceed 22 percent average for the quarter. Instead, always develop your TARGETs to emphasize a positive contribution.

NOW LET'S MAKE IT FUN

A target in competitive archery has 10 evenly spaced concentric rings with values of 1-10, plus an "inner 10 ring" or "X ring" in the center. Striking the inner 10 ring is considering a "bullseye." Scoring values equal the number of the ring you strike. For instance, hitting the 3 ring, the third ring in from the outside, is valued at 3 points.

For our purposes we define TARGETs as:

Bullseye: Start by defining an important, clear, measurable, time-bound TARGET.

Inner Rings: List the 1-5 metrics, tasks, and/or milestones that lead to achieving the bullseye TARGET.

Outer Rings: If you want, add 1-5 metrics, tasks, and/or milestones that lead to achieving an inner ring, and ultimately the bullseye.

Here is an example:

Configure a server without errors on my own by October 30

• Gain manager-defined experience with server administrative duties quarterly
• Study four or more hours towards my certifications weekly
• Share something I learn in my certification study with my team weekly
• Achieve Microsoft MCTS: Windows 7, Configuration by end of Q2
• Achieve SonicWALL Security Administrator (CSSA) by end of Q4
• Actively participate in applicable Company-sponsored training activities

The TARGET: Configure a server without errors on my own by October 30.

Inner Ring example: Gain manager-defined experience with server administrative duties quarterly.

Outer Ring example: Study four or more hours towards my certifications weekly.

There is more to learn. Download my free TARGETs guide. You will not only define your goals more effectively, but achieve them faster.

Email us if you need help.

Why accept anything less than the best you can be?

P.S. Next week I will share my 2nd secret to make next year, your best year. It is a great reminder that you get what you expect.

P.P.S. We still have a few openings in our Certified LEADER class beginning the week of January 8th. Learn more here.