A goal can be described as a target or something to strive for. Setting a goal can give you a sense of purpose, direction or meaning. Whether you consciously know it or not you are continuously setting goals that determine how you act and how you spend your time. Acton plans can help you to achieve your goals. Work through the sections below and create your own action plan.

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Benefits of Goal Setting

Taking the time to consciously develop career and personal goals provides many benefits to you:

• helps you focus on what you want in your life;
• helps you establish priorities;
• provides direction that helps you make decisions along the way; you will be less likely to make decisions due to immediate pressures or outside influences;
• encourages awareness of your strengths;
• gives you motivation -- a "motive for action"; and
• improves your self image and builds your confidence.

To be reachable, a career goal must be realistic, specific and meaningful to you. The more you understand yourself, your values, interests, strengths and needs, the easier it is to set acheivable goals.

The DCBA's of Effective Goal Setting

"Set goals beyond your grasp, but within your reach."
Dr. Bob Brisdee

Some tried and tested guidelines for effective goal setting are outlined below. When setting your goals, ask yourself, " Is my goal .....

• Be specific when stating your goals.
• Include a target date.
• Write down your goal
• Tell others about your goal
• Imagine yourself reaching your goal.

Links to Goal Setting

If you are interested in more detailed information for setting personal and career goals, here are some links:

Goal Setting - Planning and Achieving Personal Ambitions - MindTools

Top Achievement - American - Seven Steps to Goal Setting

Self Growth.com - lists sites that offer advice on goal setting. Some of the sites charge a fee for their information.