Instructions for Setting Goals

Setting goals is an important first step to getting what you want out of life. According to the University of New Hampshire Counseling Center, setting goals can lead to a number of things: improved self-confidence, motivation and performance, and a sense of pride and satisfaction. With the right focus and proper motivation any goal -- personal, educational, professional -- can be reached.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine both short- and long-term goals. Short-term goals are achievable within days or weeks while long-term goals may take years to complete. Write down your goals. Seeing them on paper helps make them real and not just an afterthought.

• 2

  Set sub-goals within larger goals. For example, sub-goals for the larger goal of landing a job with a specific company would include researching the company, finding out the application requirements and seeking open positions you are qualified for.

• 3

  Set a precise measurement for the goals. Come up with a list of dates, times, monetary amounts or other metrics that help you track your goal. For example, you want to save $5000 by the end of the year or want to graduate from college within four years. Be realistic when creating goals. Losing 20 pounds in two weeks may sound nice, but it's not safe or attainable. Setting unrealistic goals can set you up for failure and disappointment.

• 4

  Prioritize your goals. Some people's list of goals can seem long and excessive. Choose goals that are most important to you. Achieving certain goals may inspire you to create other goals. For example, finishing your computer science degree needs to come before landing your dream programming job at a major company.

• 5

  Set the right level of goals for yourself or your project. It's acceptable to set goals just beyond your reach. Avoid setting goals that are completely unattainable. Failure to attain goals may cause you to lose interest in larger goals.

• 6

  Use positive, affirmative language when writing your goals down. Avoid "don'ts" and focus on "dos." For example, instead of "Don't eat any dessert" write "Focus on healthy eating."