Top Tips for Setting Goals You’ll Stick To
Feeling lost and unsure where your life is headed? Many young people struggle to set and achieve their goals. Fear not, with the right approach, you can turn your dreams into reality and set goals you’ll stick to.
Why goal setting matters
Setting goals isn’t just about ticking off a to-do list. It’s about defining your path, staying motivated, and achieving the things that truly matter to you. Whether you’re aiming for a university degree, a dream job, or a healthier lifestyle, goals can help you stay focused and make progress. With clear objectives, you can reduce distractions and focus on the opportunities that align with your aspirations.
Setting goals can improve your self-esteem and confidence. Achieving milestones, no matter how small, can help you to feel accomplished. This positive reinforcement can fuel your levels of motivation and drive you towards even bigger things.
Defining clear goals can also create a sense of control and empowerment. By taking ownership of your goals and actively working towards them, you can feel more in charge of your choices. This sense of agency can really help to support your wellbeing and mental health.
The SMART Goal Formula
You’ve got a goal in mind, but how do you make sure you actually achieve it? That’s where SMART goals come in. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It’s a simple but powerful framework that can help you turn your dreams into reality.
Let’s break down what the SMART goal framework means:
- Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve. Instead of a vague goal like “get fit,” aim for something specific like “run a 5K in 3 months.”
- Measurable: Set quantifiable targets to track your progress. For example, instead of “read more books,” aim to “read 12 books this year.”
- Achievable: Set realistic goals that challenge you without overwhelming you. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.
- Relevant: Ensure your goals align with your values and long-term aspirations. Don’t chase goals that don’t truly excite you.
- Timely: Set deadlines to create a sense of urgency, but also be realistic with your timescales. This will help you stay focused and motivated.
Turning dreams into reality
Once you’ve set your SMART goals, it’s time to turn them into action. It might help to build a routine to stay on track.
The first step is to create a clear vision of where you want to go. A vision board can be a powerful tool to visualise your goals and keep you motivated.
Next, break down your larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make your journey less daunting and help you stay on track. Celebrate each small victory along the way, no matter how insignificant it may seem.
To stay accountable, consider using a planner, journal, or app to track your progress. This will help you identify areas where you may need to adjust your strategy or increase your efforts.
What if things don’t go to plan?
Remember, setbacks are a normal part of the journey. Don’t let them discourage you. Instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. By staying positive, persistent, and flexible, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your dreams.
If you’re still feeling stuck and want some help to figure out your next steps in life, get in touch with a Meic helpline adviser for free. Simply phone, WhatsApp message, text or chat online with Meic from 8am to midnight every day. It’s a free, confidential and anonymous service for children and young people in Wales that can be accessed in English and Welsh.
