Goal Setting

Like any other aspect of your life, the key to getting what you want in your career is setting clear goals. One method of goal setting is the SMARTS system:

Specific - Is there a specific definition? Do I know exactly what I want?

Measurable - Can I break it into steps that I can measure? How will I know when I have achieved the various steps?

Action-oriented - What do I have to do to achieve my goal? What can I do immediately to start working towards it?

Realistic - Given my currently lifestyle and resources can I achieve it?

Time focused - Does it have a start date and a deadline?

Supported - Do I have the support I need to accomplish it? Do significant others encourage me and support my goal?

There are many other resources that explain the process of setting goals, such as Mindtools.  Mindtools also has a workbook that can help guide you through the process of setting and achieving your short and long term goals. You could also try this simplified goal setting worksheet.

Once you've figured out what you truly want to do, and you've set some specific career goals, it's time to plan it out. If planning is not your favorite task, enlist help from a friend or professional Career Counsellor.