Setting Goals

Words to Know Warm-Up Worksheet!

Goals & PrioritiesA goal is something we want to do

When a goal is important in our lives, we give it a high priority

A priority is a high level of importance

Setting Priorities means putting things in order of their importance

A goal may have a high priority for one person, but not for someone else. Obstacles don’t have to keep you from reaching your goals

An obstacle is something that stands in the way of reaching a goal

When a goal is important to you, you can find ways to overcome most obstacles.

Who Needs Goals?

Goals give our lives purpose

People without goals tend to drift along without a clear direction

Setting goals is a skill.

Setting Specific & Realistic Goals

A specific goal is clearly described, it can be measured

You can set a goal that is specific and important to you, and you may or may not reach it

Your Goal must also be realistic.

To be realistic:

A goal has to be within your reach

It has to be a goal you can meet with your own skills

Short Term & Long Term Goals

A long-term goal is one you hope to meet in several months or years

Examples Include: Buying Car, Going to College

A short-term goal is one you expect to reach in a few hours, days, or weeks

Examples Include: Finishing a school project by Friday, Going to bed on time for a week

Often times, long term goals can be broken into smaller, short term goals

Taking Steps to Make and Action Plan

After you set a goal, you need to make an action plan

An action plan is a list of steps that will help you reach your goal

Step 1

Write down your goal

Step 2List steps to reach the goal

Break a long term goal into several smaller goals

Step 3Set up a time line

Decide how much time each step should take

Step 4Identify any obstacles

List things that might get in the way of meeting your goal.

Beside each obstacle, write ways you might overcome it.

Step 5Identify sources of help

Decide who or what could help you reach your goal

Step 6Check your Progress

As you work toward your goal, review your plan

Managing Your TimeKnowing how to plan your time is a valuable skill because it helps you to

reach your goals

To make the best use of your time tomorrow, follow these steps:

1.List all the things you have to do and want to do tomorrow.

2.Mark each item on your list A, B, or C

A. Very Important Tasks that have the highest priority and must be finished

B. Important tasks that should be started or worked on

C. Not-So-Important tasks that can be put off for another time.

3.On another piece of paper, divide the day into 30 minute periods. Start with the time you get up, end with the time you go to sleep.

4.On your schedule, write in all “A” activities from your list. Then as many “B” activities as possible. If you have room, add some “C” activities.

• Remember to allow enough time for each activity

• Set aside time for fun, and don’t try to schedule every minute

5.Follow your plan – Notice whether you get more done. If you fall behind schedule, make a more realistic schedule for the following day.

Wasting TimeWasting time is often an obstacle to reaching a

goal

Each time waster can be managed

Interruptions can keep you from getting your work done

Prevent Re-Doing Projects

Make sure you have the necessary supplies. Forgetting materials can waste time.