Setting and Achieving Goals
Setting clear goals helps to push you in the direction you would like to go. Whether it be a big life goal or a smaller target, being clear about what you want and how you are going to do it makes it more likely that you’ll be able to achieve what you have in mind. Whether your goals are big or small, every step is a step in the right direction. Even failure can teach us something. Often the biggest challenge is first knowing what you want to achieve!
SMART goals
A common strategy for achieving goals is using the SMART goal approach.
- Specific – be clear and specific in what you want. This is not the time to be vague or too broad.
- Measurable – how are you going to know when you’ve made progress and reached your final goal?
- Achievable – make your goal something that it attainable and potentially in reach.
- Relevant – set goals that are relevant to you and are meaningful. You are more likely to stay motivated if your goals aligned with your values and desired life direction.
- Time-framed – Set a start date and timeframe for completion and make it realistic. You’re not going to run a marathon in a week’s time if you’ve never trained.
Dealing with setbacks
It is easy to become unhinged and veer away from your desired outcome. Some people often forget to prioritise their goals and get easily side-tracked. Scheduling time ahead for working on your goal can help. There are a whole range of factors that can get in the way including, general life-stressors, competing demands, unexpected events, bad habits, poor health, and periods of low motivation. Not having the right mindset and feeling overwhelmed about reaching the ‘end goal’ can also have an impact on the journey.
So, make a start by working out what you want. Start small and clearly define your goal. Break it up into mini goals if you have to. Set a start date and a desired timeframe for achievement. Accept setbacks and start carry on – you have never failed until you fail to try! Goal evaluation is just as important in the process. If something’s not working then perhaps we need to make some adjustments.
When can a Psychologist help?
A psychologist can help you define your goals and problem-solve any potential barriers ahead of time. They can also help deal with any setbacks along the way and keep you on track. Our team are happy to help you on your journey if you need any help on your way to living your best life. You can book online using our Book an Appointment button, give us a call on (02) 4625 3339, or email us at admin@innerspacepsych.com.au.