To get started, draw a pyramid on a piece of paper. Divide it into 4 sections. See the instructions below for what to put in each section. Because this goal setting strategy requires you to set interim goals, you may have to update your pyramid weekly or monthly depending on the targets you have set for yourself.
Top of the Pyramid: Your long-term goal
Describe your goal. Be as specific as possible. If your goal is too vague, it will be hard to develop an effective plan to reach it.
EXAMPLE:
Learn to speak Korean well enough to have a conversation with my grandparents.
EXAMPLE:
Learn to speak Korean well enough to have a conversation with my grandparents.
Section 2 of the Pyramid: Your monthly goal
What will you focus on this month that will help you reach this goal? Describe this target clearly. Depending on your goal, you may need to update this part of the period monthly.
EXAMPLE:
I will practice speaking Korean for at least 25 hours each month.
EXAMPLE:
I will practice speaking Korean for at least 25 hours each month.
Section 3 of the Pyramid: Your weekly goal
What do you want to accomplish by the end of this week that will help you reach your long-term goal? Depending on how you plan to approach your goal, you may need to update this section of your pyramid regularly.
EXAMPLE:
I will attend Korean language classes once a week and complete all my homework assignments between classes.
EXAMPLE:
I will attend Korean language classes once a week and complete all my homework assignments between classes.
Bottom of the Pyramid: Daily goals or routines
Set a goal for yourself each day that will help you stay on track to meet your long-term goal. This way, your goal is never far from your mind, and you will be less likely to let it slide.
EXAMPLE:
MONDAY - Watch a K-drama and pay attention to pronunciation
TUESDAY - Attend Korean class
WEDNESDAY - Make flash cards based on new vocab from Korean class
THURSDAY - Complete homework from Korean class
FRIDAY - Practice speaking Korean with my parents or one of my friends
SATURDAY - Review with flashcards for at least 30 minutes
SUNDAY - Review flashcards for 15 minutes and watch a K-drama
EXAMPLE:
MONDAY - Watch a K-drama and pay attention to pronunciation
TUESDAY - Attend Korean class
WEDNESDAY - Make flash cards based on new vocab from Korean class
THURSDAY - Complete homework from Korean class
FRIDAY - Practice speaking Korean with my parents or one of my friends
SATURDAY - Review with flashcards for at least 30 minutes
SUNDAY - Review flashcards for 15 minutes and watch a K-drama
What comes next?
Once you reach your goal, set a new one. Being open to self-improvement and setting realistic goals for yourself are both important parts of developing a growth mindset.