SMART: A Career Analysis

As I reflect on the academic experience and continue my career endeavors I found that establishing, evaluating, and fulfilling set goals are vital key to success. According to Fallon & McConnell (2014), “a certain amount of forward progress is necessary simply to remain abreast of change.” My thinking has been tremendously influenced by education and experience as I continue my journey and exhibit growth and understanding. SMART is a goal setting guide that allows you to set and achieve your goals in a meaningful and a timely manner. In concluding this week, I learned about ‘SMART.’

S.M.A.R.T is an acronym that defines significant characteristics a goal should possess- Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. One of the biggest

advantages of setting SMART goals is the fact that they bring structure and the ability to track your progress. SMART goals help you to design a verifiable trajectory towards your goals that is clear and has specific outcomes. Smart goals become even more realistic as one accomplishes set objectives along the way to accomplish the ultimate goal. Hence your goals are not just random resolutions but specific, quantifiable and time-bound milestones in one’s personal, professional, or educational journey.
I am currently working for a company that provides early intervention physical therapy services to children under that age of 3 years old.

My current job requires me to assist a Physical Therapist in the treatment of children with developmental disorders. Currently, my title is physical therapist assistant with computer background. Working as a PTA does encompass mostly supporting and assisting role, however, more training and degree is required to be considered the primary decision maker as far as therapy treatment and evaluating patients is concerned. Occasionally, I do provide assistance to patients without the supervision of a Physical Therapist. In five to ten years, I plan to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in health care. Upon completion, to work as an Early Intervention Specialist (EIS) and design a system that will benefit children who needs advance therapy however, cannot afford the cost of treatment. Professional, I will be working as an EIS, while taking additional training and classes towards achieving my ultimate 10 years plan to become a Licensed Physical therapist with several practices

nationwide.

Using the SMART framework has really provided me with an interesting blueprint that I will strictly adhere to in order to achieve my goals in five to ten years.

Specify: My specific objectives are: 1) graduate with my four year degree by May, 2017. 2) Apply for an EIS position with the company I currently work for (this position requires a degree in health care) 3) Continue working as an EIS while enrolled in the Physical Therapy program at Howard University. My third objective will lead to the ultimate goal of working as a Physical Therapist. 4) Once I am licensed, I intend to practice on my own for approximately five to eight years, and then collaborate with other licensed therapist to expand therapy centers.

Measure: To measure my goals I noted that my first objective will be completed in approximately three months. Thereafter, apply for my EIS position and start by January of 2018. At the same token, I will start schooling for physical therapy during the spring semester and graduate by May, 2021.

Achievable: I am confident that my goals are attainable. I strongly believe that when I articulate and executive my blueprint, yet adapt to changes accordingly; my goals and objectives will become incredibly

feasible.
Realistic: Yes. My goals are completely realistic. In fact, I recall my late uncle, a Licensed PT, went through some of the same objectives and goals I have the privileged to set and achieve.
Time: My timing is the most value commodity as I aspire to achieve my goals. Therefore effective timing is critical; nothing gets put aside. My time frame is obtain education and professional development for an additional 5-7 years combined and then lead my constituents in providing enhance therapy treatment and expand practice to those who are less privileged.

Each of these goals will contribute to my professional development by helping me develop intellectually while growing professionally. This allows me to build lifelong professional relationship while making a huge impact in eliminating disparity in therapy treatments. In summary, I’ve gained clarity into where I desire to be in the future and most importantly, the roads to take to get there. These newfound insights offer great guidance when planning.