Final answer:
A goal is best defined as a strong desire to achieve something that involves willingness and planning to work towards it, which fits with option 3 in the given choices. Goals should be SMART — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — to effectively guide behavior and facilitate achievement. The answer is option 3.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question regarding what a goal is would be A desire so strong to achieve something that you are willing to work for it. This reflects the idea that a goal is not just a chance occurrence or simply a dream, but something for which you have a strong intention and are ready to take actionable steps toward achieving.
This conception of a goal adheres to the SMART criteria, meaning they should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Goals are a fundamental part of personal development, guiding our behavior towards desired outcomes and requiring dedication and planning to accomplish.
Stanislavski's hierarchy of character objectives exemplifies how goals guide actions, be they on stage or in real life. Likewise, setting career goals with a set of action steps is key to staying motivated and adapting to opportunities that arise in your career journey. Therefore, thoughtful reflection and breaking down your goals into manageable steps, with set target dates, facilitates monitoring your progress and helps in achieving personal excellence.