Final answer:
A short-term goal is defined as an achievable, relevant, and time-bound objective that can be reached typically within a year, and may lead to habitual behaviors. Employing SMART criteria assures that the goal is specific, measurable, attainable, and has a clear timeline, making the process of achieving such goals more structured and effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
A short-term goal is defined as a goal that is achievable over a period of time, typically within the span of a year, making it time-bound. Characteristics of a short-term goal include the fact that it is achievable (realistic and can be attained within a short time frame), relevant (aligns with other goals and makes sense within the broader personal or professional context), and time-bound (has a specific deadline or is targeted to be completed within the short term). Implementing short-term goals may lead to the establishment of habitual behaviors, as the repetition of certain actions can contribute to them becoming habits. By breaking down these goals into actionable steps, and setting a target date for each action, the process of reaching these goals becomes more manageable and motivational.
When establishing short-term goals, it is beneficial to engage in a process that is well-grounded in the SMART criteria which stand for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. This framework provides clarity and helps in creating a focused pathway for achieving the goals. For instance, a SMART goal could be 'To become an office manager within the next 2-3 years with a salary increase between 10-15%, possibly within the same organization.' This is specific, measurable by the salary increase percentage, attainable and relevant to career progression, and time-bound by the 2-3 year frame.