Establishing a goal and taking concrete steps toward its completion is one of best ways to effect a change and get something done. You can use different methods to accomplish any goal you set. Though the method is based on the kind of goal toward which you strive, considering the different types of goal setting can help you think of various ways to reach your goal.
Time Based
One of the most commonly used types of goal setting is based on time. According to Roger Clark of Wayne State University, time-based goals can most easily be divided into two types: short term and long term.
For example, a short-term career goal is one you can accomplish within the next month, year or several years. A long-term career goal, on the other hand, is one that takes many years to accomplish, such as getting an advanced degree or establishing your own successful company.
Quantitative
Quantitative goal setting establishes a measurable, desired result and chops it up into smaller pieces. Also called performance goal setting, each time you finish one of those smaller pieces you can easily mark your progress and keep a record of your accomplishments.
For example, if you want to lose weight you can set a quantitative goal of, say, 20 pounds. You can divide this up into ten portions of two pounds, and each time you meet that goal you can mark off an accomplishment.
Qualitatitve
Setting a qualitative goal often involves establishing skills you want to improve over a longer time period. These developmental goals can include increasing your knowledge base, developing skills for anticipated needs or problems and tailoring training to sharpen your strengths or deal with your weaknesses.
For example, you could set a qualitative career goal of improving your negotiation skills or learning about new computer programming skills. Qualitative goals can involve both time frames and measurable quantities, but are focused on your abilities and development.
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