Goal SettingDecember 28, 20239 min read

The SMART-ER Goal Setting Framework

Move beyond traditional SMART goals with this enhanced framework that actually helps you achieve what matters most.

ET

Emma Thompson

Performance Coach

SMART goals are a good start, but they're incomplete. Most goals fail not because of lack of motivation, but because of poor structure. Here's how to fix that.

Research shows: Only 8% of people achieve their New Year's resolutions. The SMART-ER framework dramatically increases those odds.

Beyond SMART: The SMART-ER Framework

Traditional SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) miss two critical elements:

E

Evaluated

Regular check-ins to assess progress. Without evaluation, you're flying blind. Schedule weekly/monthly reviews to stay on track.

R

Refined

Willingness to adjust based on feedback. Rigid goals break. Flexible goals bend and adapt to reality while maintaining the core intention.

The Complete Goal-Setting Process

1

Start With Why

Before setting any goal, understand your deeper motivation.

Why does this goal matter to me?

What will achieving it enable in my life?

How does it align with my values?

What would happen if I don't pursue it?

2

Set Outcome Goals

These are your big-picture objectives - what you want to achieve.

"Run a marathon in under 4 hours"

"Launch my side business"

"Save $10,000 this year"

3

Define Process Goals

These are the actions and systems that lead to outcomes.

Run 4 times per week

Work on business 1 hour daily

Save $833 per month automatically

Track Your Goals in Guthly

Guthly helps you track both your process goals and outcomes, giving you the data you need to achieve what matters most.

Track daily progress
Review weekly insights
Refine monthly goals
goalsplanningsuccessframework

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