top of page
Writer's pictureSPRINT project

Think outside the SMART box: exploring flexible goal setting

Whether you’re looking to crush it at work, ace your studies, or simply improve your daily routine, understanding different goal-setting strategies can have a huge impact. 


In a recent study by Pietsch and colleagues (see Full article: SMART goals are no more effective for creative performance than do-your-best goals or non-specific, exploratory ‘open goals’), SMART goals, open goals, and do-your-best goals were compared to see which was best for creative performance (the capacity to generate innovative and valuable ideas or products that are significant within a specific context), tackling a long-debated question – are SMART goals the best? In this blog post, we’ll dive into various goal-setting strategies and explore what the best options are for you. But before we delve into the findings, let’s first explore what each method entails and the potential advantages and disadvantages of each. 


What are SMART Goals? 

SMART goals are structured to provide clear direction and measurable outcomes. SMART is an acronym for: 

  • Specific: Goals should be clear and specific to provide direction. 

  • Measurable: Goals need to be measurable to track progress. 

  • Achievable: Goals should be realistic and attainable. 

  • Relevant: Goals should matter to you and align with other objectives. 

  • Timed: Goals should have a deadline to create urgency. 


Example: "Increase my running distance to 10 km within 3 months." 


Advantages = Clear direction, measurable progress, realistic planning, and motivational deadlines 


Disadvantages = Rigidity, time-consuming, pressure  Image description: acronym SMART being

written on a grey background


What are Do-Your-Best Goals? 

These goals are less structured and simply encourage individuals to try their best without specific metrics or deadlines. 


Example: "Do your best to improve your running distance." 


Advantages = Flexibility, low pressure, broad focus 


Disadvantages = Lack of specificity, lower accountability, variable motivation 


Image description: the words 'do your best'

on building blocks with red background


What are Open Goals? 

These are non-specific and exploratory, focusing on discovery and flexibility rather than specific outcomes. They encourage creativity and exploration. 


Example: "Explore different running routes and enjoy the process." 


Advantages = Exploratory, adaptability, reduced pressure 


Disadvantages = Uncertain outcomes, potential for indecision, varied commitment 



Image description: person standing

on an arrow with the words

'your goal' in the arrow


The Study 

Pietsch and colleagues divided participants into groups who were assigned different goal-setting strategies. The researchers then measured creative performance through a series of tasks designed to assess creativity, such as problem-solving challenges and creative thinking exercises. 


Key Findings 

Surprisingly, the results revealed that there were no significant differences in creative performance across the three goal-setting methods. This suggests that open goals and do-your-best goals can be just as effective as the more structured SMART goals when it comes to fostering creativity. The flexibility offered by do-your-best and open goals can be particularly beneficial in environments where creativity and personal growth are prioritized. This flexibility in goal setting can help reduce pressure, promote a positive mindset, and support a holistic approach to development. An individual could start with more flexible goal setting approaches and turn to SMART goals as they develop. 


The study challenges the superiority of SMART goals, especially in creative endeavours. It highlights the importance of flexibility and personalization in goal-setting strategies. Whoever you are, these findings encourage a broader, more adaptable approach to setting and achieving goals. 


Key Takeaways: 

  1. Flexibility Matters: this study suggests that strict, structured goals may not be necessary to enhance creativity. Embracing more flexible, exploratory goals can be just as beneficial. Do-your-best and open goals can be just as effective as SMART goals, especially in creative and adaptable environments. 


  2. Personalization is Key: Tailoring goals to individual needs and contexts can lead to better outcomes. What works for one person or team might not work for another, so it’s essential to tailor goal-setting strategies to fit unique needs and environments. 


  3. Reduce Pressure: Using do-your-best or open goals can reduce the pressure and stress associated with achieving specific, measurable targets. This can lead to a more relaxed and open-minded approach, which is conducive to creative thinking.  


In essence, the study highlights the importance of a balanced approach to goal setting, encouraging individuals and organizations to be adaptable and thoughtful in how they set and pursue their goals. By doing so, you can create an environment that not only aims for success but also nurtures growth and creativity. 


After reading todays blog, how will you set goals?


 

For more information on SMART goals, see our blog post How to set goals for success and have a go at our interactive goal setting tool Interactive goal setting | The Sprint Project


 

References

Pietsch, S., Riddell, H., Semmler, C., Ntoumanis, N., & Gucciardi, D. F. (2024). SMART goals are no more effective for creative performance than do-your-best goals or non-specific, exploratory ‘open goals.’ Educational Psychology, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/01443410.2024.2420818


 

Image credit Canva

Written by Dr Georgia Bird

53 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page