Setting School Year Goals

Classes are quickly approaching which means there is a full year of school ahead of you. It is always a good idea to create a set of goals before the start of each school year. The objective of these goals is to help you stay focused and committed to achieving your future dreams. If you dream of success, take the time to brainstorm your school year goals. Below are some helpful tools to keep you motivated during the year. 

Reflecting on the Past and Thinking of the Future 

Setting school year goals are not always easy. If you’re having trouble brainstorming your goals, look back and reflect on your previous academic year. Ask yourself how all your classes were. What did you do that made yourself proud? What do you wish went differently? Now think about where you want to be in a few years. Now think about the steps you need to take to get there. 

Write it Down

Once you have considered the changes you want to make from the previous academic year and what you want to accomplish in your future years, start to write out a list of your goals that you want to accomplish over the next year. Writing it down on paper and putting it somewhere to remind yourself of your goals is important to help hold yourself accountable. 

Holding Yourself Accountable

Make sure you continue to refer to your list of goals. Set aside a consistent time to go back to your goals to determine what type of progress you are making towards achieving your goals. Be patient with yourself, some goals may take longer to achieve then others. Remember to reflect on your long-term goals as well. If you are struggling to achieve a certain goal, take the time to ask yourself what is making this goal harder to achieve. 

Asking for Help

Asking for help is always an option if you’re struggling to achieve your goals. Friends, family, and teachers are always available for support. The more proactive you are to achieve your goals, the easier it will be to accomplish your goals. 

Reward Yourself

Creating a reward system may also help you achieve your goals. By rewarding yourself you are creating extra motivation to achieve your list of goals. Seek out rewards that will continue to help motivate you such as relaxing and recharging rewards. Setting goals is very useful to help students prepare for a successful academic year. 

Lexi Schwartz MSW LSW