Introducing S.T.A.R as an alternative to S.M.A.R.T objective definition.
Let's start by reviewing what S.M.A.R.T stands for:
- S: Specific
- M: Measurable
- A: Achievable
- R: Relevant
- T: Time-bound
While SMART is helpful and informative, I encounter difficulties when pursuing personal objectives, especially when they conflict with work objectives.
To better manage individual objectives, I propose a new Trust-based target management methodology: S.T.A.R (Simply Trust the Amount of Resource).
Here's how it works:
For individuals who are self-driven and responsible, you just need to provide them with enough resources (mainly time), and they will do their best to achieve the objective.
S.T.A.R offers some advantages over S.M.A.R.T:
- Insensitivity to specific measures: For example, if your objective is "Learning English," S.T.A.R doesn't specify whether you should be memorizing vocabulary or practicing listening. It simply ensures you have a set amount of time to learn English.
- Conflict sensitivity: While S.M.A.R.T may lead to overpromising objectives due to a lack of clear perception of your own abilities, S.T.A.R won't allow you to promise more time than is realistically available in a day.
The essence of S.T.A.R is Trust, making it potentially unsuitable for defining company objectives. However, since one can always trust oneself, it could be a good approach for setting your new year's objectives.