What does SMART in SMART goal setting represent?

SMART goal setting is a widely recognized framework that guides individuals in establishing effective and clear objectives. The acronym SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely.

Specific refers to defining the goal clearly and precisely, eliminating any ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "I want to get fit," one could specify "I want to run a 5K race."

Measurable allows for the goal to have criteria for tracking progress and measuring success. This means setting targets that can be quantified, such as "I will increase my running distance by 1 kilometer each week."

Attainable emphasizes that the goal should be realistic and achievable. It ensures that the goal is challenging yet possible given the individual's resources and constraints.

Realistic means that the goal should be reasonable and take into account the individual's existing skills and opportunities. It is about striking a balance between ambition and feasibility.

Timely helps to set a deadline for the goal, which creates urgency and encourages consistent progress. For instance, specifying "by the end of three months" creates a timeframe for completion.

The incorrect options deviate from the standard definitions associated with the SMART framework, either by using different terms that do not align with the established meanings