Setting effective goals is key to effective time management. I have found, though, that it's easy to end up focusing not on goals but on outcomes. Let me explain how I use the terms.

A good goal is something that is under our control. Circumstances may arise that make it harder or easier, but whether or not we do it still comes down to our own choices and priorities. An outcome is something which, while we can act in ways more and less likely to make happen, we can't simply choose to do or not do.

For instance, someone who is looking for a job might have goals such as revising resumes, sending out a certain number of job applications, emailing a certain number of business contacts, or going to networking events. However, they can't fully control how long it will take for their efforts to bear fruit. Their vision, or desired outcome, is to find a new job. Their goal needs to be both more controllable and specific.

You may already be familiar with the concept of SMART goals. Smart goals are: S=Specific M=Measurable A=Attainable R=Realistic T=Time-based By making your goal SMART, it increases the likelihood that you will be able to achieve it.

In addition to the SMART criteria, I also like to assess a goal in terms of whether it is completely under your control. Is it something you can outright choose to do or is it something you can really only work towards and influence? If the latter, perhaps it's really an outcome or a vision... and you should choose one or more goals to support it so that you can get there. Distinguishing between goals and outcomes makes it easier to motivate yourself and hold yourself accountable. It also let you assess your goals more easily to decide if they are really moving you towards the outcomes you desire.