Unachievable targets

Question 1

what may be the reasons a target is unachievable?

Answer 1

• expectations are too high
• targets are not clear
• there are too many goals
• timing is wrong
• targets are not suitable for the individual
• fear of not being able to meet targets
• not being in the right frame of mind to commit to the plan (depression, anxiety, stress)

Question 2

how do high expectations create unachievable targets?

Answer 2

if a target is set to high it may become unachievable. people will be reluctant to start the plan if they feel like they can not succeed at their goal. they may give up when they fail to see progress towards their target.

Question 3

unrealistic expectations arise when?

Answer 3

• planned targets do not allow enough time, people need time to make changes.
• planned targets are too large
• planned targets cause anxiety

Question 4

how do unclear targets create unachievable targets?

Answer 4

• targets must be clearly defined, the person may give up if they don’t know what they need to do.
• people with communication or learning difficulties may require special presentation pf their targets so that the information is clear to them

Question 5

how does having too many targets create unachievable targets?

Answer 5

• multiple targets are overwhelming. people don’t know where to start if they are expected to change different aspects of their lifestyle all at once
• stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake and losing weight at the same time could be unachievable

Question 6

how could poor timing create unachievable targets?

Answer 6

• both the start time of the plan and time allowed for each target will affect the persons chances of success
• targets may be unachievable if: the start date of the plan is inappropriate or there is not enough time to achieve each target

Question 7

how could unsuitable events create unachievable targets?

Answer 7

targets must be suitable for each individual person in order to be achievable
-for example a older person will not have the same care as a younger person would.

Question 8

how does SMART relate to unachievable targets?

Answer 8

any targets that are not SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time related) will become unachievable.