How to Write a Developmental Goal

Setting a meaningful personal goal can be a profound, introspective experience. While goal-setting can be extremely motivating, the process of achieving your goal can seem daunting. To overcome these negative feelings, many mental health professionals recommend that goal-setters write a developmental goal statement. A developmental goal statement is a powerful tool that can change your life by articulating your goals and focusing your efforts.

Instructions

• 1

  Head the first section of your developmental goal "Objective." In this section, write a sentence or two stating what you would like to achieve. Keep your objectives as focused as possible--for instance, rather than writing "I want to make my life better," you might say, "I want to get to know my children better."

• 2

  Head the next section of your developmental goal "Action Plan." In this section, write a numbered or bulleted list of the concrete actions necessary to achieve your objective. Your actions can be organized sequentially, or by "theme." Keep all of your goals actionable. If your objective is to lose weight, "go to the gym three times per week" is a better goal than "loose five pounds per month."

• 3

  Head the next section "Time-line." In this section, note the time-frame for the completion of your goal, as well as any significant milestones. For instance, if your goal is academically oriented, you might note the dates of any important tests or assignments. If necessary, attach a notated calendar to your developmental goal.

• 4

  Head the final section of your developmental goal statement "Evaluation Metrics." In this section, clarify how you will evaluate the success or failure in your efforts to achieve your goal. Concentrate on both quantitative and qualitative measures of success. Also in this section, define any follow-up action you will take if you do not meet your goals within your time-frame.