Final answer:
An aim or purpose is what one intends to achieve or accomplish, with an aim providing direction and a purpose underlining intent. Goals should be SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) and followed by an actionable plan to achieve them.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thing that one plans to do or achieve can indeed be referred to as an aim or purpose.
An aim is a broad target that provides general direction for tasks or activities, often serving as a guiding principle for efforts. On the other hand, a purpose is the underlying reason why a particular goal or task is important, informing the intent behind objectives and setting the course for actions.
When identifying goals, it's essential to create a plan to achieve them, ensuring they are achievable and apt for the context. Moreover, setting relevant and result-based goals helps maintain focus and motivation, as one must be willing to work toward the pursuit of these objectives. It is crucial to define goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound, known as SMART goals.
To articulate these goals effectively, one might ask questions such as: who is involved, what is to be accomplished, where it will happen, when it should be completed, and why it is significant. Translating aims into actionable items through an Action Plan further clarifies the steps needed to materialize objectives.