What is one characteristic of effective goal-setting?

Effective goal-setting is characterized by being specific and measurable because this clarity helps individuals understand exactly what they are aiming for and how to track their progress. When goals are specific, they provide a clear direction and focus, which increases motivation and encourages accountability. Measurable goals allow individuals to assess their advancement toward achieving the goal, which can help maintain enthusiasm and sustain effort. For example, rather than setting a broad goal like "increase sales," a specific and measurable goal would be "increase sales by 15% over the next quarter." This precise formulation not only outlines what is to be achieved but also sets a timeframe for when success can be evaluated.

While being vague and broad may sound flexible, it often leads to confusion and lack of purpose. Similarly, setting only long-term goals can result in a lack of immediate direction and can be discouraging without short-term milestones. Aiming for perfection in every aspect can create overwhelming pressure and paralyze progress, as perfection is often unattainable. Therefore, the clarity and trackability of setting goals that are specific and measurable make this approach essential for effective goal achievement.