The terms “goal,” “objective,” and “target” are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences in their meanings.
Goal
A goal is a broad, high-level statement of what you want to achieve. It is often qualitative and aspirational, and it may not have a specific timeline or measurable outcome. For example, a personal goal might be to become a better public speaker.
Objective
An objective is a specific, measurable, and time-bound outcome that helps you achieve the broader goal. It is often a concrete step or milestone that helps you track progress and stay on track toward achieving the goal. For example, an objective that supports the above personal goal might be to deliver a successful presentation at a company meeting next month.
Target
A target is a quantifiable goal that helps you measure progress toward achieving the objective. It is often a specific number or metric that defines what success looks like. For example, a target that supports the objective of delivering a successful presentation might be to receive positive feedback from at least 75% of the audience members.
Conclusion
Overall, the three terms are related, but they serve slightly different purposes in the goal-setting process. Goals are broad and aspirational, objectives break down the goals into specific, measurable outcomes, and targets provide a quantifiable way to measure progress toward achieving the objectives.