1. Preparing for College & Careers Mrs. Torp
Goal Setting Notes
Preparing for College & Careers
Mrs. Torp

2. Terms & Definitions
Goal: An aim or intention; ambition; a desired and/or planned achievement
Goal Setting: Determining what you want and designing a plan to accomplish it

3. Terms & Definitions
Obstacles/Barriers: Things that interfere with your progress
Internal: Personal Issues – attitude, anger, fear, effort, confidence, etc.
• External: Outside Issues – economy/job market, location,
family, money, friends, etc.

4. Terms & Definitions
Resources: Available assets to help in achievement of a goal
Internal: Personal Resources – attitude, determination, skills, etc.
External: Outside Resources – school, internet, family, friends, etc. 

6. Successful Goal Setting Steps
Be sure the targeted accomplishment is something you really want or need.
2. Make sure the goal does not contradict any of your other goals.
3. Write your goal down on paper.
Be specific. Vague goals are unattainable.
Write it in positive form, not negative. Your mind responds more to positive ideas.
Be sure it is realistic (not too high or low).

7. Successful Goal Setting Steps
4. Identify
The obstacles you will need to overcome. (fear, peer pressure, etc.)
The resources you have available to help you. (friends, money, etc.)
The tools you will need. (education, skill, dedication, etc.)
5. Establish a deadline for your goal.

8. Successful Goal Setting Steps
6. Make a plan, using the information from steps 3 – 5.
List all of the activities necessary for reaching your goal.
Prioritize the activities.
Rewrite the activity list as a timeline of short term goals.
Identify the resources/tools needed for each short term goal.

9. Successful Goal Setting Steps
Focus on the end results (the “payoffs” –
benefits/advantages) of achieving your goal.
After you have accomplished some of the short term goals,
re-evaluate and make adjustments (if necessary).