Most people exert so much effort trying to achieve their goals and have no idea why they repeatedly fail. The reason is largely that the way they are structuring their thinking about their goals is getting in the way - not the goal itself!

The purpose of this filter is to eliminate those goal ideas that are a blackhole for your time, energy, attention and other assets.

First, create a written goal statement in the format of:

“It’s [insert fully specified time] and I [insert what you have achieved].”

Then, ensure your goal passes through the SMART+ Filter illustrated below:

Once your goal has successfully passed through the filter, imagine the successful completion of the goal.

Step into the picture

Score it out of 10:

How positive does it feel?

How real does it feel?

How compelling is it for you now?

It should score at least a 9 or 10... Anything less means your goal statement needs some work. Take it through the SMART+ Filter paying careful attention to each criteria. Re-write the goal statement as needed.

Filtering for Predictable Success