How to Set and Achieve Goals Using CliftonStrengths

03. Set Your Goal, and Make It Actionable

Different talents and motivations play heavily into goal setting. Let's look at a S.M.A.R.T. goal example to inspire some goals to set for yourself -- and to show you how to use your strengths to achieve them. Follow the framework from the section above, and then incorporate your strengths.

Scenario:

Imagine that you're a manager. You've noticed some low engagement on your team recently -- and in speaking with your employees, you've learned that they feel like their efforts and successes aren't being recognized or celebrated. You want to fix this.

1. Define Your Goal Your goal might be to increase the amount of recognition each team member receives. Start by asking yourself why this matters to you and your team. Perhaps increasing recognition will improve morale, foster a sense of accomplishment and drive better performance.
2. Break Down Your Goal Using S.M.A.R.T.
   • 

     Specific

     I want to increase the number of times I recognize each employee every month.
   • 

     Measurable

     I will recognize each team member at least three times a month. After each quarter, I'll ask employees if they feel satisfied with the recognition they're receiving.
   • 

     Achievable

     I will use reminders on my calendar to ensure I take time to acknowledge employees throughout the month, especially after completing significant tasks or milestones.
   • 

     Relevant

     Recognition is important because it aligns with my values of appreciation and fostering a positive, supportive work environment.
   • 

     Time-bound

     I will implement this goal by the end of next month and continue on a monthly basis thereafter.
3. Actionable Steps To achieve this goal, I'll schedule 10-minute discussions with my team members during one-on-one meetings to learn their preferred recognition styles. I will also create calendar reminders so I don't forget to acknowledge each person regularly. My strengths can help: I'll use my Relator theme to build genuine connections and my Activator theme to give recognition in real-time.
4. Identify Potential Obstacles and Solutions I might encounter challenges, like having a busy schedule or forgetting to follow up. To overcome this, I'll rely on my Input theme to gather information about how each person likes to receive recognition and my Achiever theme to stay organized and on top of my commitments.
5. Create Accountability I'll work with an accountability partner to stay motivated and check in on my progress. I'll also celebrate small wins along the way, like acknowledging when I've given consistent recognition for a week. Recognizing my own efforts will help me stay focused and energized to continue the practice.
6. Visualize the Outcome I picture my team members feeling more motivated and engaged as they begin to receive regular recognition. This boost in morale will create a more connected, empowered team, driving better performance.