The definition for goal setting may differ depending on who is looking to set the goals or the scenario in which these goals are to be applied. When determining how to define goal setting, it is helpful to consider goal setting for adults versus children and goal setting for personal life versus professional and educational life. Goal setting definitions do have some generalities that regardless of person and place can be used for multiple applications.
Goal Setting in General
Regardless of the goal, experts from psychologists to business leaders define goal setting by referring to ten basic principles or steps.
1. Set goals at appropriate levels.
2. Set goals for appropriate reasons.
3. Prioritize goals
4. Set goals that fit your personality.
5. Set goals that are exciting to achieve.
6. Involve others to help or support.
7. Write goals down.
8. Phrase goals that are motivating and realistic.
9. Make goals concrete or measurable.
10. Consider smaller or short-term goals within a larger or long-term goal.
Short-term Goal Setting
Short-term goal setting means setting a goal that will be accomplished in the near future. Short-term goals are often smaller, attainable and part of your daily routine. The ten principles of goal setting may seem silly for some short-term goals but try using them. Consider clustering short-term goals that might add up to a larger goal. Do not create a false sense of short-term goal achievement by setting goals that are already part of your daily routine.
Long-term Goal Setting
Long-term goal setting involves something larger that needs more time and depth to accomplish. The ten principles of goal setting are very useful for defining long-term goals. Long-term goal setting often relies on well-defined short-term goals. You may want to assess short-term goals and revise them accordingly so that you are more likely to succeed. Long-term goals should be challenging and maybe slightly intimidating--balance between pushing yourself and being realistic.
Recognizing Accomplishments
One important aspect of goal setting is recognizing that you have not only set these goals but that you have achieved them. Patting yourself on the back helps motivate yourself to set more goals. Further, pausing to recognize your achievements also provides an opportunity to reflect on what worked and what could have made the goals more easily accomplished. Use this as a time to grow, learn and re-evaluate other goals.
Goal-setting Assistance
Goal setting can be overwhelming. You may have a difficult time conceptualizing long-term goals or reaching professional goals. Goal counseling is very helpful to provide structure and guidance in just how to do this. Many social service agencies provide this as well as school guidance counselors and some supervisors. Consider asking for help before accepting defeat or perpetuating unsuccessful patterns.
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