The SMART goal framework is used for guiding the goal setting, it implies that the goals that are being set are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. When creating and using SMART goals, it is recommended to set up milestones that would help continually generate the feeling of winning among individuals who would be completing them. With the help of positive recognition and accomplishment, it is possible for leaders to establish an environment for effective task completion. Therefore, leadership at different organizations, including healthcare settings, is about influencing others to reach goals that have specific characteristics which make them possible to accomplish.
The nursing leadership framework developed by the Australian College of Nursing was aimed at promoting the values and needs of nursing to key stakeholders. A well-qualified nursing workforce is among the key components of the framework as it allows leadership to lead health and relevant reforms dynamically and transformatively SMART goals are established to create a better environment that could benefit both patients and the staff in a variety of settings (1). In addition, there is a need to address leadership within the profession and enhance staff retention, effective recruitment, and positive patient outcomes. Due to the increasingly challenging clinical environment, the need to advance nursing leadership by establishing clear and realistic goals is high on the agenda. When setting the goals of reaching nurse retention and good patient outcomes, which are priority goals, the potential strategies should be refined based on the five SMART principles. These goals should be clear and challenge leaders while also calling for their commitment should be based on continuous feedback and the understanding of how complexity in goal achievement can be reached.
Reference List
1. Ward, K. Guest editorial: nursing leadership and Australian College of Nursing’s (ACN) work in capacity building for the Journal of Nursing Management. J Nurs Man. 2017: 585-586.