The ability to set and follow through on goals makes a profound difference in a person’s success and long-term growth, especially for people in STEM fields. Effective goals define the measurable success we want to achieve. Although many of us set informal goals or have some idea about where we are going, we can increase our chance for success if we master the ability to set and achieve goals.
Goals help us chase our dreams. For example, you might have a goal to be accepted into the college of your dreams, like I do. You might also want to be working toward a particular profession in the STEM field. You can make these dreams a reality by setting incremental goals.
As you start the new year, think about some things you would like to achieve and use the following framework to establish some goals for yourself.
- Select a goal area on which you can make progress during the next 90 days.
- After you have selected an appropriate goal, record your goal statement. It is helpful to write it down or post it in a place you see often. You can use the following structure:
- I Will (Describe specifically what you will do.)
- By (Indicate the deadline for accomplishing the goal.)
- So That (Include the strongest benefit of accomplishing this goal.)
- Make sure that your goal statement is SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant to you and what you want to achieve, Time-bound).
- Outline the specific action steps that will help you be successful with the goal. It might be helpful to share the work you have started with a parent or teacher and get their ideas and support.
- Think about potential obstacles or challenges you may encounter that could interfere with your progress. (Refer to the Bright Futures Begin With STEM blog article, Overcoming Disappointment and Setbacks).
- Make a personal commitment to achieving the goal by taking immediate action on the plan you have created.
For decades, researchers have been trying to define how and why goal-setting works, and everyone has a theory. The one thing on which all can agree is that setting goals helps us achieve results. Share your goal-setting best practices and experiences in the comment section below. Good luck as you launch into a new year with inspiring goals and plans.
Bright Futures Begin With STEM 