Setting Goals and Moving Forward

January is traditionally the month of new goals or, often, old goals reignited. We view the changing of the calendar as an opportunity to start again and take strides forward - building off of what we accomplished (or were unable to accomplish) in the year before. The goals may be lofty and long-term or small and achievable. There are no rules to the January reset. 

However, that doesn’t mean there can’t be some guidelines to setting goals and working toward them. In Mentoring and at RJLF, we teach and model SMART goals. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Using this model to set goals, enables individuals to continue taking small steps of success toward long-term goals. 

For example, when a Fellow wants to graduate from college, their first goal may be to complete the first semester of their bachelor’s degree by spring 2023, with an average GPA of 3.0. This more specific goal is a key factor in their long-term aim but allows them to focus on something they can achieve in a set and shorter period of time. 

Using SMART goals is a great way to work toward your own achievements. Give it a try this month as you determine your 2023 plans. See how it works for you!

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