Many people view New Year’s as the opportunity to set resolutions and goals for personal and professional growth. By the end of January, some of these resolutions and goals fall by the wayside. Setting clear, defined expectations and goals allows us to define exactly how we plan to accomplish them.
Goal setting is a skill and requires practice and effort to get right. A goal is defined as “the object of a person’s ambition or effort; an aim or desired result.” Having a well-defined goal is like having a map that helps you choose how to get to your destination. 4-H uses a specific goal-setting technique called S.M.A.R.T. goals, that can be useful to anyone working towards a specific accomplishment. Under the S.M.A.R.T. model, goals must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
First, the goal must be specific- try answering the five “w” questions. The more defined the goal, the easier it is to focus and become motivated to achieve it. Next, be sure the goal is measurable. If you can’t track progress and see the bar moving, you’ll lack the motivation needed to accomplish it. Third, make it achievable. A realistic goal that stretches your ability and comfort level puts you in the best position for success. Another characteristic is a relevant goal. Does the goal matter to you and does it fit in with the other things going on in your life? Finally, the goal needs to be time-bound. If you don’t have a deadline, it’s easy to let other tasks take priority over your long-term goals. Be sure to have check-points along the way to ensure progress as well.
To start setting goals for 2022, here are some guidelines. Begin with the end in mind by coming up with some broad areas you are interested in changing. These may include health, finances, leisure, personal development, ect. Within each of the broad areas that you identify, set some S.M.A.R.T. goals that you want to work towards. Make an action plan and identify which steps you need to take to accomplish each goal, what milestones or checkpoints you will have, and identify the timeline you want to stick to. Make sure you review your progress on your goals periodically and adjust your action plan as needed. Once the time limit on your goal has run out, check in and celebrate if you’ve achieved them or reflect on why you haven’t.
Setting goals can be a daunting task no matter what you are using it for. Using the S.M.A.R.T. method of creating goals ensures that you are setting specific goals that you can take action on and be successful in working towards accomplishing. What are you going to be working towards in 2022? Let us know at 706-359-3233 or uge3181@uga.edu
