Last month we reported that top managers rely on a combination of focus and energy to be truly effective. To be focused, you need the ability to zero in on one or two goals, see them through to completion, and make them smart.

In 1960 President J.F. Kennedy declared "By the end of this decade, we shall put a man on the moon and return him safely to earth."

It was a smart goal because it was:

Specific:         identified what should be accomplished and by when
Measurable:  provided a basis for measuring results
Attainable:     could be achieved within a certain time frame
Relevant:       it was worth pursuing and important
Trackable:     it's progress could be tracked over time

NASA and Neil Armstrong accomplished the goal with six months to spare!

You too can use this smart formula to take your own 'small steps' towards a worthy goal.