SMART Goal Setting

Study Skill 2.1 SMART Goal Setting

Introduction

“A goal without a plan is just a wish!” – Antoine de Saint-Exupery

We all have goals and desires or things we want to achieve. Do you ever find yourself frustrated or disappointed when you don’t feel you are reaching your goals or reaching them fast enough? SMART goal setting can help!

• S - Specific and Simple: The best goals are clear, not vague. Rather than “do better in school,” you might set a specific goal for a specific course. That way, you know when you’ve achieved it!
• M – Measurable: Set benchmarks so you know when you have achieved your goal or are making progress!
• A – Action Oriented/Attainable: A goal must be in your control! Make sure to set goals that YOUR actions can impact and help you achieve. Don’t put your success out of reach or in someone else’s hands.
• R – Realistic/Relevant: Set yourself up for success. Choose goals that you know are possible and important to YOU. To achieve HUGE long-term goals, break them down into smaller, more manageable stepping stone goals.
• T – Time-Bound: Setting a deadline or target time for your goal can help keep you on track and motivated!

Watch

• https://bit.ly/2m7q40Q Links to an external site. - LearnStorm Growth Mindset: How to write a SMART goal

Visit

• https://www.smart-goals-guide.com/setting-smart-goals.html Links to an external site. – "Setting Smart Goals"
• https://www.mcckc.edu/counseling/goal-setting/docs/SMARTGoalWorksheet.pdf Links to an external site. – "SMART Goal" Worksheet

Key Ideas

• To achieve your dreams and desires, you need to practice effective goal setting.
• SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Action Oriented, Realistic, and Time-bound.
• Don’t be afraid to STRETCH! Dream big, lofty dreams, but then act small, breaking down these long term “dream” goals into manageable and actionable SMART goals that will get you there!

Apply

• Activity: Do it! Set a SMART Goal! Share your goal with at least one other person to increase your accountability!
• Reflection: Look at your classes; what do you need to do? How can you get there?