by Ethan Paquet
It can be challenging to stay motivated when procrastination stops you from making progress. But it doesn’t have to be like that.
To set a goal, you must first know what a goal is. By definition, a goal is an idea of the future that you envision, plan, and commit to achieve. This is different from your dreams, although with some work, you can turn a dream into a goal.
An achievable goal can be long-term or short-term. It is important to understand what both mean.
A long-term goal is something you want to accomplish in the future. It may not be this week, or even this year, but it is some idea of the future. Short-term goals are the steps you take toward that long-term goal.
So, if you wanted to start your own business, wouldn’t it make sense to consider what your business will sell, how much money you will need to afford it, how you are going to get that money and where you will open shop? By keeping your short-term goals related to your long-term goal, you can track your progress and know what you have left to do to accomplish your long-term goal.
The SMART Method, created by George T. Doran, breaks your goal into categories so you can see how achievable your goal really is. Once you’ve checked off each category, you can consider your plan now in action. Let’s take a look:
Specific. Your goal should be a specific statement. (Example: “I want to start my own computer business.”)
Measurable. Identify the way each short-term goal will help reach the long-term goal. (Example: consider what you will sell, what services you may offer, how much money you will need to open shop, where you will get the money and how you will promote your business)
Achievable. Short-term goals should be realistic accomplishments. Avoid turning them into long-term goals. (Example: “browse listings for retail space, put down a deposit, move in,” vs. “open shop somewhere.”)
Realistic. Goals are different from our dreams in that your long-term goal should be related to your life’s purpose. (Example: I want to start my own computer business,” vs. “I want to be rich and famous and own a computer company.”)
Time. Give your goal a deadline. You can also give your short-term goals a deadline. Not only will this keep you focused on achieving the goal on time, it will also show you where you are on your way to achieving your goal. (Example: “I want to open my computer business on August 1, 2021.”)
Methodist co-founder George Whitefield said it best. “Press forward. Do not stop, do not linger in your journey but strive for the mark set before you.”
If you are looking for guidance to further your career journey, Career Development Services (CDS) can help you discover your skills, interests, and strengths. They also offer career counselling to help you in finding a career path that matches your strengths and personality.
For a list of community supports for job seekers, visit www.employmentjourney.com/resources-services-for-job-seekers
For information on entrepreneurship and how to start your own business on PEI, visit www.employmentjourney.com/resources-to-start-maintain-a-small-business