Do you set personal goals for yourself?
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By Michelle Allen
I’ve always been someone who has goals, both personally and professionally. Some are big dreams that may take years to accomplish, while others are smaller goals that help me stay focused on what’s important right now. What I’ve learned over the years is that having a goal is one thing, but creating a plan to achieve it is something entirely different.
That’s why I try to use SMART goals whenever possible. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of saying, “I want to get healthier,” a SMART goal provides a clear path forward:
SMART Goal Example:
“I will walk for 30 minutes at least five days per week for the next three
months to improve my physical health and increase my daily activity
level.”
This goal is specific, measurable, realistic, relevant to overall health, and includes a timeline.
Personally, I use goal setting in many areas of my life. As someone who is continuously learning, pursuing higher education, building my blog, working on family history projects, and striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle, I often have several goals in progress at the same time. Breaking larger goals into smaller, manageable steps helps me avoid feeling overwhelmed and reminds me that progress happens one step at a time.
Professionally, SMART goals help me stay focused on growth. Technology is constantly evolving, and I believe lifelong learning is essential. Whether I’m learning new skills, exploring emerging technologies, or working toward a long-term career objective, having clear goals helps me stay accountable and motivated.
One professional SMART goal I might set for myself would be:
Professional SMART Goal:
“I will complete one professional development course related to
information systems by the end of this semester and apply at least one new
skill learned in a class project or workplace task.”
What I appreciate most about goal setting is that success isn’t always measured by reaching the finish line. Sometimes the greatest reward is discovering what you’re capable of accomplishing along the way. I’ve achieved things I once thought were beyond my reach, not because I was fearless or exceptionally talented, but because I kept taking small steps forward.
Goals give us direction. Even when life doesn’t go according to plan, having a destination in mind helps us keep moving forward.
So I’m curious:
Do you set personal goals for yourself?
Do you use SMART goals, vision boards, planners, journals, or another method to stay on track? What’s one goal you’re currently working toward?
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
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