Tutorial Learning Centre

Time Management: Goal Setting

Why should we set goals?

• Clearly written goals enhance success. Although your main goals right now are likely related to education and career, you may also want to set personal and relationship goals.
• Setting long-term goals (1-5 years) clarifies your direction and helps keep you going when you are feeling frustrated.
• Short-term goals (for this week, today, or for the next study session) can help you to focus and work efficiently.
• Set "SMART" goals:
  
  Specific − Your goal says exactly what you want to achieve.
  Measurable − You can tell when you have achieved it.
  Achievable − Winning the lottery might be a nice thought, but it's not a goal because you don't have control over it.
  Realistic − The goal of making $200,000 within the first year of graduating is probably not realistic!
  Timed − All goals should have a specific end date.

"I will finish my lab report by 4:00 on Tuesday" is an example of a SMART goal; "I want to spend more time with my kids" is not a SMART goal. It is too vague, not measurable and has no time limit.

Record your (SMART) goals:

Long-term Goals (Achievable within 1 to 5 years):

Short-term Goals (Tasks that will help you work towards meeting your long term goals. Things you can accomplish today or this week).