Goal setting: a method of accomplishing a certain standard of ability on a targeted task within a specific amount of time. It is important that your goals are SMART. Why? Ineffective goal setting creates a pattern of haphazard, wasteful attempts toward a task that ultimately dampens your motivation. Appropriate goal setting helps you succeed by allowing you to evaluate your progress and modify or redirect your efforts.
Components of Setting EFFECTIVE Goals:
Specific – make your goals as specific as you can get them
Measurable – goals should be observable and measurable
Action-oriented – have a game plan and make it challenging
Realistic – goals must be challenging, but also realistic
Timed – have a date for completion
Example:
Dream Goal:
– Obtain a Division I Scholarship to play soccer
Long-Term Goals:
– Be a captain
– Keep my grades at a 3.5 GPA
Short-Term Goals:
– Be loud on the practice field and in games
– Work on ball control
– Finish all homework by the end of the week
Daily Goals:
– Stay focused 95% of my time at practice
– Spend 2 hours studying each night
– Spend 30 minutes juggling every day
– Search for different college teams to play for
Robyn Antoyan is a certified athletic trainer at Compete and has her Master’s degree in Sport Psychology