1. Be Specific
When you’re setting goals, it’s important to be clear and concise. This makes it easier to follow the goals since you know exactly what you need to do. For example, let’s say you want to read more. Instead of writing down “read books”, write down “finish the book ‘Ulysses’ by February 3rd”. Remember when, what, and how. Outline an exact deadline, and what you will finish by that deadline. Another example: instead of “stop being on the phone at night” say “by 9:30 PM I will hand my phone to my mother”.
2. Set Up Times
If you want to accomplish something, you need to spend time doing it, right? It can be easy to define a goal, but hard to actually do it. Thus, set up a specific time for a goal. For example, if you want to pick up crocheting, find a time in the week – like 7:00 PM on Fridays. Set an alarm on your phone.
3. Find the Why
If you find yourself not having any motivation for a goal, you need to find the why. Especially when it comes to goals you have to do, but don’t particularly like. Write down a list of why you need to do something and its benefits. For instance, let’s say one of your goals is to study for the ACT. However, you can’t get yourself to do it. Your sample list would look something like…
Benefits:
- Dream college
- Scholarships–no financial stress
- Self confidence
- etc
4. Use Tactics
Try to find something that will motivate you to do your goals. Get a nice notebook, for example. Draw a habit tracker and decorate the page nicely. Or, set a goal with a friend. You can motivate each other as you go.
5. Never Give Up
Always remember that you don’t have to be the perfect version of yourself on January 1st. The amazing thing is you have a chance to restart 365 times. Even if you start on March 23, it doesn’t matter!
Click here for The Science of Setting Attainable Goals!
For more tips on academic goals, check out Girl Spring contributor Jannah’s Setting Realistic Academic Goals While Preparing for College!
