Goals

Goals can be defined to have a clearer idea about what to work towards.

There are many different aspects of goals, and taking some time to consider these aspects in relation to a goal and the wider context can be a good idea.

It is also important to set the right goals. All the productivity in the world won't matter if you are working on the wrong things.

Input goals and output goals

This is a concept that has many names.

• Leading metric vs. lagging metric
• Input goal vs. output goal
• Process goal vs. outcome goal

Goals typically exist on a spectrum between these two extremes.

An output goal is directly connected to the outcome you want from a project. For instance, that could be "finish among the top 10 runners in a race in 4 months." But you don't actually have control over whether or not you will achieve this goal. You don't control which other runners that are going to participate in the same event, and even if you did or you were yourself one of the 10 best runners in the world, there might be external factors that affect your or other competitors performance during the run. In practice this uncertainty can be demoralising for many people who measure themselves agains output goals. Output goals are probably what you actually care about in the end.

Input goals on the other hand are goals that are in your control if you're willing to put in the effort. You will almost always be able to go out and run for 30 minutes. While running for 30 minutes every second may not be the goal you care about, you will probably do well in the race if you practice consistently.

Examples of output goals and alternative input goals:

• Lose 10 kg in 3 months - Track the macronutrients of everything you eat for 3 months
• Finish writing thesis - Work on thesis every weekday for 4 hours.

Frameworks for goal setting

SMART goals

SMART goals are a popular framework for setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objectives. This method helps individuals and organizations create clear and attainable goals, leading to better performance and success. Here's a brief overview of each aspect of SMART goals:

1. Specific (S): Goals should be clear, well-defined, and unambiguous. This helps provide a precise understanding of what needs to be accomplished. When setting specific goals, it's helpful to answer the five "W" questions: Who, What, Where, When, and Why.
2. Measurable (M): Goals should be quantifiable, providing a way to track progress and determine when the goal has been met. Measurable goals help you stay on track, reach target dates, and experience a sense of accomplishment. Consider including quantities, percentages, or other metrics to make the goal measurable.
3. Achievable (A): Goals should be realistic and attainable within the given constraints, such as time, resources, or external factors. Setting achievable goals means considering your current abilities and limitations, while still pushing yourself to grow and improve. It's essential to strike a balance between setting goals that are challenging yet achievable.
4. Relevant (R): Goals should be aligned with broader objectives, whether personal or organizational. Relevant goals ensure that your efforts are focused on what truly matters and contributes to the desired end result. Ask yourself if the goal is worthwhile, the right time for it, and if it matches your needs and priorities.
5. Time-bound (T): Goals should have a clear time frame or deadline to create a sense of urgency and keep you focused on the task. Time-bound goals help you manage your time efficiently and prevent goals from being overshadowed by daily distractions or other tasks. Specify a target date or a period within which the goal should be achieved.

By incorporating these five aspects, SMART goals provide a structured and comprehensive approach to setting and achieving objectives, making it easier to plan, monitor progress, and ultimately succeed in your endeavors.

CSI Approach goals

Goals should be challenging, specific, and immediate and they should be "approach" goals meaning that they should focus on doing or adding something rather than not doing or avoiding something.