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Dear Upcoming Artist: How to be S.M.A.R.T with Your Goal-Setting

December 31, 2020

2021: Supplier consolidation, Cloud security and continued remote working - TVBEurope

As we set goals for the coming year relative to our endeavours, I thought to draw our attention to the SMART method of goal-setting. The acronym formed by George T Doran in 1981 helps create specific criteria for one’s goal to help improve the chances of their manifestation.

S - Specific

M - Measurable

A - Achievable

R - Realistic

T - Timed

Relative to being an artist, we probably don't do enough of this but here goes; being specific, realistic about what we aim to achieve in the coming year is more important than anything. Also imperative is being able to quantifiably measure the progress of these goals per time. It’s your onus to ensure these goals are achievable gauging certain things like what you really are about, your status, the resources at your disposal. To crown these, it’ll be great to set per goal to an intended period of time. 

For instance, “I want/need more fans” has become popular with many

  • In being specific, how about you first, think about where/how you want people to discover your music/content - Are you doubling down on social media or just DSPs? Are you looking to churn out more content beyond official releases? These are questions.

  • Also, make it measurable, come up with however you intend quantifying moving parts  - Are you drawing a content schedule monthly? Weekly? Are you effectively wielding data from your analytics? 

  • For where you are, ensure it's achievable and realistic enough for what's at your disposal. How many listeners or content is doable for you - Are you a student or worker? How would this intended schedule blend with your other endeavour? Given the atmosphere around you/the world, given your resources, capability, is it achievable? Is it realistic? Questions that need honest answers.

PS: It's not enough to just want to ‘wing it’ because all unrealistic goals will do is keep you frustrated and disappointed. 

  • Lastly, try the habit of timing these goals. I too learnt this the hard way. It's easier to be on track and on your toes when you have set times to get things done with checkpoints along the way. 

So there, happy S.M.A.R.T goal-setting and Merry New Year in advance!