My Information Skills

Self-paced tutorials on research and study skills for TAFE SA students

Set goals

Goals can:

  • keep you motivated and focused
  • give you direction
  • increase your chances of success
  • give you control over your life

Breaking large goals down into smaller ones can make the large goal more manageable and achievable. A large goal may be to pass a qualification. Smaller goals would be to do the required reading, complete assignments on time, 100% attendance at class etc. Each of these smaller goals can be also broken down into smaller steps.

S.M.A.R.T. is one way to help you set goals. Your goals should be:

  • Specific: Choose physical, tangible goals that help you to clarify what you really want, and make it easier to reach. For example:

I will read the text book for this course

  • Measurable: You need to have 'markers' or achieved actions to show you have succeeded. For example:

I will read every chapter in the text book.

  • Attainable: Goals should be realistic. They need to reflect your abilities, not over-ambitious dreams that are unachievable. Push yourself, but don't go over your limits. Ask yourself how much time do I really have to complete this task? For example:

I will spend one hour a day, three days a week reading the textbook

  • Relevant and Realistic: Do you really want this goal? Do you have the ability to achieve this goal?

The assessment is based on the text book so reading it is important. I have sports practice 1 night a week, and on Saturday mornings, so I have the time to do the reading. This course will help me get the qualification I want.

  • Timely: Deadlines keep you on the go and help you to stay motivated. Always set an end date for both long and short term 'step' goals. Reward yourself as each milestone is reached. For example:

I will finish reading the textbook by the sixth week of the course.

My Goal Statement: I will read the set text book three times a week, finishing all chapters by Week 6.

All your goals should be working towards your ‘big’ life goals. Ask yourself:

  • What do I want to achieve in the next few weeks, the next few months?
  • What do I want to achieve in the next couple of years?

Don't forget to set goals for 'fun' things in your life.