The new year is a time for fresh starts, and what better way to kick things off than by reflecting on where we’re headed? Goals give us direction, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment when we achieve them — and that’s all the more important for students, who are actively engaged in a quest for self-improvement. By taking a moment to think through where they want to focus their efforts or what areas they would like to explore, students can take ownership of their education and development.
Colleges love to see students who have taken the initiative to pursue their own goals and passions, above and beyond the structures that schoolwork naturally provides. Between classes, studying, extracurriculars, and social lives, finding the time and energy to focus on goals can be tough, however — that’s why building a structure to stay accountable to the path you set out is essential.
The SMART method is a simple but powerful framework for setting effective goals. Each letter stands for a key principle. Goals should be:
Specific: Be clear and precise about what you want to achieve. Instead of a vague goal like "do better in school," aim for something like "improve my grades in math by 10% this semester."
Measurable: How will you know you're making progress? Define concrete markers to track your success, like taking practice tests or keeping a study log.
Attainable: Set goals that are challenging but achievable with effort. Don't try to go from failing grades to straight A's overnight. Start small and build momentum.
Relevant: Make sure your goals are aligned with your values and interests. Ask yourself why this goal is important to you.
Time-bound: Set deadlines for your goals to create a sense of urgency and keep yourself accountable. Break down long-term goals into smaller, achievable milestones.
Not all goals are created equal. Here are a few different types of goals you can set as a student:
Academic goals: Improve your grades, master a new subject, win an award, get into your dream college.
Personal goals: Develop a new skill, learn a language, get in shape, become more organized, boost your confidence.
Social goals: Make new friends, join a club, volunteer in your community, strengthen relationships with loved ones.
Creative goals: Write a story, paint a masterpiece, compose a song, learn an instrument, start a blog.
Staying on Track: Tips for Success
Setting goals is half the battle; achieving them is the other half. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
Visualize your success: Imagine yourself achieving your goal and how it will make you feel. This will boost your motivation and keep you focused.
Break down big goals into smaller steps: This makes them less daunting and easier to manage.
Find an accountability partner: Share your goals with a friend, family member, or teacher who can check in on you and offer support.
Celebrate your achievements: Take the time to acknowledge your progress, no matter how small. This will keep you motivated and excited about your goals.
Don't be afraid to adjust your goals: As you progress, your circumstances and priorities may change. Be flexible and adjust your goals accordingly.
Remember, goal setting is a journey, not a destination. There will be setbacks and challenges along the way, but don't get discouraged. Keep your eyes on the prize, stay focused, and never give up on your dreams. At Smarten Up we encourage a growth mindset: the belief that with hard work and dedication, you can improve yourself and achieve what you set out to accomplish!
Bonus Tip: Check out these awesome apps and websites that can help you set and track your goals:
Goalcast: Get inspired by motivational talks and stories from successful people.
Habitica: Turn goal setting into a fun game with RPG elements.
Todoist: Organize your tasks and track your progress with this user-friendly app.
Evernote: Capture your ideas, organize your notes, and stay on top of your goals.
Let's conquer this year together, one goal at a time!