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Setting goals for your game is an art. The trick is in setting them at the right level, neither too low nor too high. ~ Greg Norman |
A goal is an aim or an end towards which effort is directed. A goal is where you want to be. Developing one requires conscious projection into the future in order to bring clarity to the direction you should take now. This section provides information to design and write your goals so that they will become real.
"SMART": Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely
Specific means detailed, particular or focused. A goal is specific when you know exactly what is to be achieved and accomplished. A simple goal is easier to understand. Imagine your goal as specifically as you can. Ask: Who, where, what, when, how...specifically?
Measurable goals are quantifiable. Think of the evidence that will let you know you have achieved it. For example, words like ‘better’ or ‘faster’ are not quantifiable. "Increase my course grades by 10%" provides a clear measure for a goal.
Achievable goals are self-maintained; the achievement of the goal is up to you alone. There are many aspects of life that involve dependent relations with others. Your goal should clearly speak to things that you have control over.
Realistic goals are practical and possible. Realistic goals are a balance between what is hard and what is easy to achieve. They require a ‘stretch’. It’s that little bit extra in performance that makes people progress and improve. Is your goal realistic and reasonable?
Timely goals mean that they are scheduled. There is a finite duration to your effort, a deadline. People can put off doing things if no deadline is set because human nature usually finds something else to do on the way. For example, "by the end of June" is more specific than "toward the end of June". However, the most precise statement is: June 30, 20XX.
Finally, consider the language you use when writing your goals. Avoid wording goals in terms of, "I hope to have a job in a field related to my area of study". Rather, use wording such as "I will complete 10 information interviews in the financial services industry by January 31, 20XX."
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Most people wish for riches, but few people provide the definite plan and burning desire which pave the road to wealth. ~ Napoleon Hill |
Whereas a goal is where you want to be, a plan is the strategy you employ to get there. Planning turns goals into tangible "bite-sized" steps of action. A plan details the activities necessary to accomplish the stated goal. It organizes your dreams so that you can move forward with confidence. The biggest mistake next to not having a plan is to be so fixed that new opportunities are missed. Remember, a plan is not a life sentence. As your interests and expertise change, feel free to adjust your plans and goals.
To help you create a road map to accomplish your goals, you may choose to use the following form. Click on the text :
View it as a normal Web page and print it.To continue to the next section, Step 4, click here.
