Setting Goals

Thinking about opportunities and alternatives is the first step in this direction. What do I want to be when I grow up? What do I want to be really good at? What are some hobbies I’d like to learn?

A goal is something that you want to achieve and you do everything that you can to make it happen. You can do anything you want. Just focus your energy and plan ahead! By keeping these things in mind and taking steps toward making them happen, you will reach your goals.

You can feel great about yourself by setting goals for yourself and trying to meet them. Try a new dance, audition for the school play, or learn about careers in which you may be interested. Your self-esteem will improve when you have a goal to work toward. So go ahead: dream and plan. Reach for the stars!

Imagine trying to find your way to somewhere you have never been before. Without a map you probably couldn't do it, right? Goals are like directions on a road map. They are like little landmarks to help you plot the way to your future. Your goals relate to your values, thoughts, and dreams.

Goals can be short, or long-term. Short-term goals are things that will happen soon. Short-term goals are ones that you can do in a week or a month. Start with small goals like rearranging your room, writing a poem, or finishing a book. A good way to plan for your future is to set short-term goals that you can meet every week. You’ll be on your way in no time!

Mapping Your Goals

Make a list of goals for this week:

Make a list of goals for this month:

Make a list of goals for your year:

Make a list of goals for 5 years:

Long-term goals are things that will happen over a longer period of time. They are both very important to your future. These are goals that you’ll meet by the end of the year or when you graduate from high school. You need to make decisions and take actions to make your long-term goals happen. For example, a long-term goal could be buying a bike. Begin by doing odd jobs and saving your money. You can buy your bike by the end of the summer or year. Planning ahead is the key! It also helps to write your goals down.

Your parents probably have goals they want you to achieve, too. Talk to your parents about your future goals and see what they think. It may seem like a long time away, but have you thought about what you want to do when you finish high school? Do you want to go to a trade school or college? What would you like to study? Would you stay at home or go away for college? It's good to think about this kind of stuff early so you can set goals for yourself. Make plans for the future with your parents.

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