Final answer:
Goal setting is the process of establishing objectives over time, involving the creation of achievable and measurable goals. It is crucial for personal and professional development and plays a significant role in performance appraisals in the workplace.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of establishing objectives to be achieved over a period of time is known as goal setting. This practice involves the creation of achievable and appropriate goals, with a plan to accomplish them. To ensure that a goal can be successfully met, it should be measurable and motivational. This means you need to establish clear criteria to track progress and ultimately determine when the objective is reached. Goal setting is an important aspect of not only personal development but also professional enhancement, such as in performance appraisals. During performance appraisals, employees' work objectives and outcomes are reviewed, with consideration for established goals. Documented regularly, these appraisals can help guide future goal setting, based on both met and unmet targets, enhancing overall job performance.