Another very important technique in NLP is goal setting, and in NLP we
have what are called SMART goals as you will see below.

SMART goals help improve achievement and success.  A SMART goal clarifies exactly what is expected and the measures used to determine if the goal is achieved and successfully completed.

A SMART goal is:

Specific (and strategic):  Linked to position summary, departmental goals/mission, and/or overall School of Medicine goals and strategic plans.  Answers the question—Who? and What?

Measurable:  The success toward meeting the goal can be measured.  Answers the question—How?

Attainable:  Goals are realistic and can be achieved in a specific amount of time and are reasonable.

Relevant (results oriented):  The goals are aligned with current tasks and projects and focus in one defined area; include the expected result.

Time framed:  Goals have a clearly defined time-frame including a target or deadline date.

You can define either short term goals (days or weeks) or long term goals
(months and years).

Example of not a smart goal is: I want to lose a stone in weight in 6 months time.

Example of a smart goal is: I am going to lose a stone in weight by 30^th July
2014. I am going to achieve this by eating nutritionally, reducing my calorie  intake and will start exercising 2-3 times a week.