Goal Setting Model
Different types of models and why should we use them
Hey friend,
In the previous newsletter, I talked about setting goals for placements and introduced the SMART Goals method. This week I will explain it further and also introduce some other goal-setting tools to you all.
But first… Why should we use these models to set goals?
It’s always easy to say you would like to achieve something in the future, for example memorizing anatomies. But have you actually tried to work towards them or even started taking your first step? I am guessing the answer from most of you is no/ not yet. ( Not Yet is always a lovely term to use when you are procrastinating btw :P) And sometimes one of the reasons is not knowing where to start or how to start working towards the goal, which is why we use these models to facilitate goal setting. They are designed to break the aim into smaller chunks, which will make the goal look much less overwhelming therefore you can actually start doing it rather than continue panicking.
There are 3 main goal-setting models I would like to share for you to use in different situations: SMART Goals, OKRs, and Backward Goals.
SMART Goals:
- Normally used in reflections for physios, good for individual work as it takes more time for you to think through your aims and objectives.
- Specific: Break down into smaller chunks, for example, if you are trying to improve the knowledge around the hip joint, you would break them down into bone, muscles, nerve and blood supplies, pathologies, etc.
- Measurable: How would you know if you had been successful? For example, quizzes or teaching your peers.
- Achievable: Do you have the resources and time to allow you to work through this goal? Make it challenging for you but do not stress yourself too hard to prevent backfire!
- Relevant: Would this goal help you achieve further in other areas? For example, you would not choose to revise elbow pathologies if your goal is to revise the hip joint.
- Time-Bound: Set a deadline for yourself to review what you did and whether the method you are using is useful. If not, change your method or ask for help (don’t be afraid of asking).
-Similar Models: Locke and Latham’s 5 Principles, OGSM (Objectives, Goals, Strategies & Measures)
OKRs (Objectives & Key Results):
- Quick and easy to use, good for teamwork
- 1 Objective followed by 3-5 Key results, the objective should be realistic, clear, and qualitative, and key results should be measurable, relevant, and focused
- For example: The objective is to complete a presentation on a specific pathology, which will be the common goal for the team. Key results will be separated according to each individual in the team, where some would be finding relevant research, some creating and designing the PowerPoint and some may be asking patients about their thoughts and feelings.
- Similar Models: BSQ (Think Big, Act Small, Move Quickly), BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goals)
Backward Goals:
- Good for both team and individual work
- It is used by working back on what to do from the main goal, for example, a dissertation. You would then work back to find out what to do, like peeling each layer of an onion.
- E.g. To complete the dissertation, you would need to have your research summarized, and you would need to critically appraise each research before using them and needing to search for papers and books before you start.
- Time frame should then be added to keep yourself on track all the time.
I personally do find goal-setting models quite useful, another tip would be to try to write them down on a piece of paper and stick it somewhere obvious for yourself to remind yourself what you are trying to achieve, rather than remembering it all in your head which will allow yourself not to over-stress and help to increase the attention and focus of your brain.
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Best wishes,
Talk.Physiotherapy