SMART goal

A SMART goal is a criterion that takes an aim out of vagueness and makes it testable. Its acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. George T. Doran defined the concept in 1981 in the journal Management Review. A wish such as "to be healthier," when it takes the form "to walk two days a week for three months," becomes something that can be worked on. A goal that cannot be measured also cannot show whether one is making progress.