Setting Smart Goals

The difference between whereyou are and where you want to

be!

What is a Goal?

A University study found that only 3% of students wrote down their goals. 20 years later they found that the same 3% were wealthier tha n the other

97% COMBINED!

What Are SMART GOALS?

S pecific, strategic

M easurableA ttainableR ealisticT ime-bound

Why SMART Goals?• Goals are something that you want to

achieve in the future

• SMART goals assist in “getting focused” on what to focus efforts toward

• SMART goals help define exactly what the “future state” looks like and how it will be measured

Steps to Reaching a Goal

• Set a Goal• Develop a plan of action• Set a time limit, not a deadline• Decide whether you are

on track with your goal• If you are… GREAT!!!

– If you are not, re-set your time limit

• Are you there yet or is this an ongoing goal?

Long & Short Term Goals

• You should have at least one long and short term goal at any given time.

• Why?– With short term goals you will have frequent

victories!!!– Long term goals (two years and

over) keep you headed in

the right direction

Are you Committed?

• What are 5 - 10 things that you have committed yourself to and why?

I have committed myself to getting straight As this

semester because I want to graduate with

Honors!!!

Can Goals Change?

• YES!!!– Goals can be adjusted in response to

changes and events that happen in your life.

• BUT…– Don’t change a goal because you have put it

off. If you have put it off, evaluate why you did so and figure out how you

can adjust your plan and time frame to still achieve it.

What If…• I feel discouraged?

– Re-evaluate why you chose this goal• What obstacles are hindering you?• Are you utilizing your resources?

• I cannot complete my goal?– Don’t get discouraged– Recognize partial accomplishment– Break the goal into smaller goals– Use your family, friends and resources for support– Are you still unable to complete the goal?

• You are the only one to decide when enough is enough

• Don’t stop setting goals for yourself

Obstacles

• If you encounter an obstacle:

– Add them to your goal plan

– Treat them as short or long term goals that you must achieve

– Be flexible and willing to change your plan and timeline

– Above all, Don’t Stress!!!

Dealing with Procrastination?

• If your goal is long term– Take small steps to complete your goal– No matter what, just start– Keep little reminders

• Tell a friend your goal, ask them to remind you• Keep little notes of encouragement

– Reward yourself when you complete a task• Buy something special for yourself• Do something special for yourself• Call someone who would motivate you

Accomplishment

• Reward yourself • Acknowledge the contributions of others

– Let the people who helped you along the way know that you have accomplished your goal

• Share your news with family and friends– You would be amazed how excited

people get when you succeed

• Set another goal or continue working on your current goals