CREATE S.M.A.R.T. GOALS
Specific - set a specific goal or target, don't be too general or vague or so big it can't be accomplished.
Measurable - the goal must be able to be measured, you want to be able to see the progress you are making.
Action- oriented - Be pro-active in taking the action that will result in reaching the goal. Don't sit and wait for someone to hand it to you.
Realistic - the goal must be realistic, you can't have a goal that simply can't happen, EX: like turning your little brother into frog.
Timely - There must be reasonable time to complete your goal, but no so much time you lose focus or motivation.
CREATE A GOAL BOARD IN YOUR BEDROOM.
- Write your dream down on a piece of paper and hang it on a bulletin board or poster board or even on the wall of your room. Look at it every single day. EX: A veterinarian surgeon for horses.
- Cut out pictures or print pictures of what you want to achieve and put them up around your dream.
- Cut out words that describe your goal and put them onto your goal board.
- Research the steps it will take to accomplish this goal, (EX: what do you need to do, are their certain classes), then write the steps down and put them onto your goal board.
- Set a time limit to achieve the steps for your goal.
- Write down the people who can help you achieve this goal if you get stuck, then don't be afraid to get the help.
- DON'T give up if you have a setback, you are only human.
- MOST IMPORTANTLY - never lose sight of your goal. Talk to yourself every day telling yourself you will achieve or accomplish what you dream.
DON'T GET DISCOURAGED!
- If you run into problems with your goal setting, talk to someone about how to get it back on track.
- Re-examine your goals to make sure the goals and steps follow the guidelines. EX: If the goal is too big it could be unattainable. If you have too many steps you could get tired and want to quit.
- Refocus you plans, start with smaller successes until you are able to get back on track to your big goal.
- Use predesigned goal worksheets to help you get started if you are having problems.
- Remember that you need multiple smaller goals accomplished in order to achieve your big, long term goal.