Let’s Get Smart and Set Goals to ASPIRE

Abstract Goal setting has been a long-supported performance enhancement and behavior change strategy. However, a goal’s efficacy is largely dependent on its structure (specific, measurable, moderately difficult, performance focused, and proximal) and related support systems (assessing individual and environmental factors and evaluating and supporting goal progress). While goal structures are often employed, support systems have not always been effectively implemented. Our purpose is to assist practitioners in attending to both goal structure and support systems by using the ASPIRE goal framework. By using this framework, individuals may be more likely to avoid issues that detract from goal setting effectiveness.