A SMART Goal is one that is, Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Based.  A not so smart goal is one that is general, fantastical, pulled out of thin air, and going to happen sometime soon. 

Being an effective leader depends on what kind of team you lead, what your personality is, and what your company’s goals and trajectory are.  A good leader for a startup is not necessarily a good leader for an established bank or other slow and steady business. But all leaders need to set goals, SMART goals, and make sure they follow up on the results.