Tips for Creating SMART Goals in College

Set a specific goal, the more specific you are the greater your chance of accomplishing it. Whenever you are setting a goal, sit down and answer these six questions: Who: Who is involved? What: What do I want to accomplish? Where: Identify a location. When: Establish a time frame. Which: Identify requirements and constraints. Why: Specific reasons, purpose or benefits of accomplishing the goal. Example: A general goal would be, "I want to go back to school". A specific goal would be, I want to sign up at City College for their PSW Program and graduate in 35-weeks.

When setting a goal determine how it will be measured, is it time-based, amounts, weights, ex. Being able to measure your goal is key, this will allow you to see how close you and keep you accountable.

Set a goal that is attainable, you know what your strengths and weaknesses are. Be realistic, if you have a large goal set smaller incremental ones, that lead you to accomplish the overall goal. Setting small goals and having the satisfaction of achieving them will keep you motivated. Example: If your goal is to lose 50lbs, instead of having the large daunting task set smaller goals of losing 5lbs a month.

When setting a goal, make sure you set one that is relevant. Does this goal match the direction you want in your life? Is it something that you truly want and will it keep you focused and driven. When thinking about its relevancy ask yourself these questions: - Does it seem worthwhile? - Is this the right time? - Does it match my other goals?

When setting goals it's important to add a time-frame. This will hold you accountable and keep you working on your goals. Without a time-frame, it's easy to keep putting off working on your goal.