What does the 'S' in SMART goals stand for?

The 'S' in SMART goals stands for Specific. This means that when setting a goal, it should be clear and well-defined so that everyone understands what exactly is to be achieved. A specific goal provides a clear focus, which is essential for creating effective strategies and taking actionable steps. For instance, instead of saying "I want to be fit," a specific goal would be "I want to run a 5K race in under 30 minutes." This clarity helps individuals to set concrete plans and milestones, making it easier to track progress and stay motivated. Specific goals eliminate ambiguity and confusion, which can often lead to procrastination or a lack of direction in achieving desired outcomes.