Achievable vs. Attainable — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 18, 2024
Achievable refers to goals that can be accomplished through effort and skill, while attainable emphasizes the practical possibility of reaching a goal, often considering external factors.
Difference Between Achievable and Attainable
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Achievable goals are typically set with an understanding of one's own abilities and resources, implying that with the right effort and application of skills, the goals can be met. Whereas attainable goals take into account broader circumstances and resources available, suggesting that, realistically, the goal can be reached.
Setting an achievable goal often involves personal or organizational introspection to ensure the goal aligns with capabilities and resources, highlighting a self-reliant approach to goal-setting. On the other hand, attainable goals may require considering external factors such as market conditions, competition, or collaboration opportunities, thus encompassing a wider range of elements beyond personal control.
Achievable goals can be highly motivational, as they are tailored to what one believes can be accomplished through hard work and dedication. In contrast, attainable goals, while also motivational, may require more strategic planning and alignment with external conditions to ensure they can indeed be reached.
In the context of personal development, an achievable goal might relate to improving a skill or achieving a personal best in a certain area, relying heavily on the individual's commitment. Conversely, an attainable goal in the same context might consider additional factors like available time, access to training, or the support of mentors and peers.
While achievable goals emphasize the process and personal growth involved in striving towards a goal, attainable goals might focus more on the end result, ensuring that the desired outcome is realistic within the broader environmental or situational context.
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Comparison Chart
Focus
Individual's effort and skill
Practicality and external conditions
Planning
Self-reliant, based on personal capabilities
Strategic, considering broader circumstances
Motivation
Personal growth and effort
Realism and strategic alignment
Context
Often personal or organizational goals
May include broader goals considering external factors
Key Consideration
Alignment with abilities and resources
Realism in the face of external conditions
Compare with Definitions
Achievable
Possible to accomplish.
Finishing the marathon was an achievable goal with proper training.
Attainable
Realistically achievable considering all factors.
A balanced budget is attainable with careful spending.
Achievable
Realistically attainable through effort.
The sales target was ambitious but achievable.
Attainable
Possible to reach or achieve.
Homeownership is attainable with financial planning.
Achievable
Within one's ability.
Learning to play a new instrument is achievable with practice.
Attainable
Achievable with available resources and conditions.
A sustainable lifestyle is attainable with community support.
Achievable
Feasible with determined effort.
Mastering a new language is achievable with dedication.
Attainable
Within reach given current circumstances.
Expanding the business was attainable with the new partnership.
Achievable
Attainable with resources at hand.
Building a prototype was achievable within the budget.
Attainable
Possible to accomplish with strategic planning.
The project deadline was tight but attainable.
Achievable
To gain with effort or despite difficulty; reach
Achieve fame as a singer.
Achieve a record speed.
Attainable
To gain as an objective; achieve
Attain a diploma by hard work.
Achievable
To succeed in accomplishing; bring about
Achieve a task.
Achieve an improvement in foreign relations.
Attainable
To come to or arrive at, as through movement, growth, or the passage of time
Redwoods can attain a height of 300 feet.
Achievable
To accomplish something successfully; perform at a standard or above standard level
Skills needed to achieve in school.
Attainable
To succeed in a directed effort, process, or progression
Attained to high office.
Eventually attained to wisdom.
Achievable
Capable of being achieved, which either means possible or probable.
Attainable
Able to be accomplished, achieved, or obtained.
Achievable
Not linked to fate or outside influences.
Attainable
Something that can be attained.
Achievable
Capable of being achieved.
Attainable
Capable of being attained or reached by efforts of the mind or body; capable of being compassed or accomplished by efforts directed to the object.
The highest pitch of perfection attainable in this life.
Achievable
Capable of existing or taking place or proving true; possible to do
Attainable
Obtainable.
General Howe would not permit the purchase of those articles [clothes and blankets] in Philadelphia, and they were not attainable in the country.
Attainable
Capable of being attained or accomplished;
Choose an attainable goal
Art is not something that is come-at-able by dint of study
Common Curiosities
What makes a goal attainable but not necessarily achievable?
A goal might be attainable due to favorable external conditions, but not achievable if it exceeds an individual's current skills or resources.
Can a goal be both achievable and attainable?
Yes, many goals can be both achievable and attainable, especially when personal effort aligns with favorable external conditions.
What does it mean for a goal to be achievable?
It means the goal can be accomplished through one's own efforts and skills, considering personal or organizational resources.
How does a goal qualify as attainable?
A goal is attainable when it is realistically achievable, considering all internal and external factors, including broader circumstances and resources.
Why is it important for goals to be achievable?
Achievable goals ensure that individuals or organizations are motivated and engaged, as they work towards something within their capability.
Do achievable goals require more personal investment than attainable ones?
Achievable goals often focus more on personal effort and skills, whereas attainable goals might require broader strategic planning.
Can changing circumstances affect whether a goal is attainable?
Yes, changes in external conditions can significantly impact the attainability of a goal.
Is it better to set achievable goals or attainable goals?
The choice depends on context; achievable goals are great for personal growth, while attainable goals are suited for broader strategic objectives.
Can a goal be too ambitious to be achievable or attainable?
Yes, overly ambitious goals might exceed current capabilities or fail to consider realistic conditions, making them neither achievable nor attainable.
How can one ensure a goal is both achievable and attainable?
By aligning personal skills and efforts with realistic planning that considers all internal and external factors.
How should one adjust goals if they no longer seem achievable or attainable?
Goals should be reassessed and modified based on new skills, resources, or changes in external conditions to ensure they remain relevant and motivating.
How do achievable and attainable goals contribute to success?
Both types of goals are essential for success; achievable goals foster personal development, while attainable goals ensure realistic planning and strategic alignment.
Is feedback important in assessing the achievability and attainability of goals?
Yes, feedback can provide valuable insights into current capabilities and external conditions, informing the goal-setting process.
Can the achievability or attainability of a goal change over time?
Absolutely, as skills improve or circumstances change, goals can become more or less achievable or attainable.
How does one balance the desire for ambitious goals with the need for them to be achievable and attainable?
By setting ambitious yet realistic goals that stretch capabilities without exceeding them, and by considering all relevant internal and external factors.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
