S is for SPECIFIC: What do you want to achieve?
Describe your goal. Be as detailed as possible. If your goal is too vague, it will be hard to develop an effective plan to reach it.
EXAMPLE:
I want to improve my performance in Social Studies, so that I improve from the Developing level to the Proficient level on the majority of my assignments.
EXAMPLE:
I want to improve my performance in Social Studies, so that I improve from the Developing level to the Proficient level on the majority of my assignments.
M is for MEASURABLE: How will you track your progress along the way?
You need a method for keeping track of your progress as you work towards your goal, so you can tell if things are going well or if you need to make some adjustments to your plan. Be careful to choose a method that will accurately measure your progress. You should also make sure that it is quick and easy-to-use, so you actually keep up with it.
EXAMPLE:
I will keep track of my assignments and marks using the notes app on my phone.
EXAMPLE:
I will keep track of my assignments and marks using the notes app on my phone.
A is for ACHIEVEABLE: What specific steps can you take to reach your goal?
You are more likely to reach your goal if you can break it down into smaller, more manageable steps. Aim to have 3-5 steps in your plan. If you don't break down your plan at all, you may feel overwhelmed and unclear about how to reach your goal. If you include too many steps, you may not be able to keep track of them all, and you might give up. Keep your steps clear and specific--just like your goal. Make sure each step is something you are willing to actually do or your plan will fall apart.
EXAMPLE:
I will take the follow steps to help me achieve my goal:
EXAMPLE:
I will take the follow steps to help me achieve my goal:
- I will update my assignments list in my phone app every Sunday night.
- I will read the feedback on each assignment to identify my strengths and areas for improvement.
- I will attend FIT time at least once a week to get extra help in the areas where I need to improve.
R is for RELEVANT: Why is it important for you to reach this goal?
Staying motivated as you work towards a goal is tough. Understanding WHY your goal is so important to you can help you stay focused during those times when you feel like giving up or slacking off. Keep both your goal and your "why" visible will help you stay motivated. Something as simple as a Post-It Note on your bedroom wall might be all you need to help remind you of how important your goal is to you when things get tough.
EXAMPLE:
I want to improve my performance in Social Studies because it has always been my most challenging subject, and I want to feel less frustrated when I am working on assignments and projects.
EXAMPLE:
I want to improve my performance in Social Studies because it has always been my most challenging subject, and I want to feel less frustrated when I am working on assignments and projects.
T is for TIMELY: When do you plan to reach your goal?
If you want to actually reach your goal, you need to give yourself a deadline, but make sure it is realistic. Will your goal take a long time to achieve or should you set a more short-term deadline so you don't put things off? Should you gradually work towards your goal with a multi-step timeline? Setting up realistic timelines and deadlines for achieving your goal will help keep you accountable.
EXAMPLE:
I will be achieving at the Proficient level by the end of semester 1.
EXAMPLE:
I will be achieving at the Proficient level by the end of semester 1.
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.
