Goal Setting

Goal Setting

1. Begin a discussion about short-term vs long-term goals.  Short-term goals tend to be anywhere from one month to a year while Long-term goals for students can be from 1 year to 5 years.  To start, identify several (2-4) short-term goals and one or two long-term goals.  Hopefully this will give students some short-term success for continued motivation.  

2. Help student set S.M.A.R.T. goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and tangible.  By setting realistic and attainable goals students have a greater chance of reaching goal and to stay motivated.    An example of a S.M.A.R.T goal would be "I want to make a 70 on my next history test" instead of "I want to do better in history."  

3. Then Develop an action plan for the S.M.A.R.T. goals.  An example of an action plan for "I want to make a 70 on my next history test" would be; I will complete all classwork and homework this week to prepare for test, take notes each day during class, and review my notes for 20 minutes each night to help prepare.  By writing out the action plan students will have a reference and can better monitor their progress.  

4. Help motivate the student along the way by celebrating the small steps and the goal completions.  Even if there are some set backs along the way it is important to refocus and keep working.  Developing new patterns takes time and working as a team to stay motivated is essential.  Focus on the positive progress and efforts.  Pausing to reflect boosts our ability to handle obstacles and barriers in the future.

5. Giving teens a voice in their (personal, educational) lives and taking part in the decision making leads to current and future success.  Be intentional about setting aside time for teens to discuss their goals and progress as family and with their teachers/educational supports.