7 Fascinating Facts: Goal setting and action planning
by Center on Transition Innovations
Available formats: PDF
1 Set goals to give your life direction: Setting goals can help you choose where you want to go and what you want to accomplish in the future.
2 Ensure your goals are SMART: SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely. They specify what you are going to do, allow you to measure your progress, are reachable with hard work, are meaningful to you and have a deadline.
3 Create an action plan: A goal is not a goal unless you take action. Taking action is the difference between a goal and a dream.
4 Break goals down: Breaking goals down into smaller action steps will make them easier to achieve.
5 Develop a timeline and schedule: Allow yourself a little extra time before deadlines are due in case it takes longer to complete than expected. Make sure to include your timeline on your calendar.
6 Identify supports: Everyone needs support at some point or another. If you never ask for help, you will certainly accomplish less.
7 Track progress and review action plan: Tracking your progress can provide you with the encouragement and structure to work towards your goals. Modify steps to reflect your changing priorities and experiences.