Goal Setting

Learning to establish goals is at the root of any system of motivation. It is important that one observe the following guidelines when setting goals. A goal must be:

Conceivable

You must be able to conceptualize the goal so that it is understandable and then be able to identify clearly what plan of action you will take toward achieving it.

Believable

In addition to being consistent with your personal value system, the goal must be one you believe you can reach. This goes back to the need to have a positive, affirmative feeling about one's self... bear in mind that few people can believe in reaching a goal that they have never seen achieved by someone else.

Achievable

The goals you set must be obtainable given your personal strengths and abilities.

Controllable

If your goal includes the involvement of others, you should first obtain consensus or the permission of the other person to be involved - or the goal may be stated as an invitation.

Measurable

Your goal must be stated so that it is measurable in time and quantity.

Desirable

Your goal should be something you really want to do. Whatever your ambition, your goal should be one that you want to fulfill, rather than something you feel you should do.

Growth Facilitating

Your goal should never be destructive to yourself, others or society.