I was once taught to only set goals that are measurable.
While I understand the logic behind this, I also understand the danger. While it is great to reach for a high mark, it is even greater to reach for a consistent set of standards. Most often than not, if you set goals which you can commit to, you will reach a high level of performance.
Let’s take free throw percentage for example. It is common knowledge that repetition will lead to success. Setting a goal of shooting 80% from the FT line will only evaluate your performance. Setting a goal of shooting 150 free throws everyday after practice now evaluates your habits and your consistency. If those 150 free throws are taken with the right amount of concentration, it is quite likely that your percentage will increase. And depending on your initial percentage, you will most likely reach the goal of 80%.
The point is this: Set goals that are achieved and measured by your ability to commit rather than how you perform. If you are consistent in your commitment to improve, your performance is guaranteed to improve.