In college life success is not only about having good marks, but also about doing the right thing in the right way by working hard. All students desire to pass well in studies, excel in career and attain dreams. However, this journey is hard without specific planning and goal setting Provided one needs goals come into reality and not remain only written on paper, he or she needs to learn about SMART goals.
SMART means:
- S – Specific
- M – Measurable
- A – Achievable
- R – Relevant
- T – Time-bound
Let us now know how you can give a new direction to your college life through these five points.
Specific – Make the goal clear
Any goal can be achieved only when it is clearly defined.
- For example: Wrong goal: “I want to do well in studies.”
- Wrong SMART goal: “My GPA will be 3.5 or higher this semester.”
- This kind of goal gives you a clear direction of what level you have to perform at.
Measurable – Measure progress
If you can’t measure your goal, you won’t know how far you have progressed.
- Example: I will study for 10 hours every week.
- I will score more than 90% in the next exam.
- I will become better at reading the feedbacks of the teacher in every assignment.
- This will assist you keep track as to whether you are on the right path or not.
Attainable – Make the objective not too high
It must be a large aim but not too large so as to be not achievable.
There is a need to know your existing capabilities, time, finances and situation.
Example: Without a high GPA during the last semester i.e. 2.5, you might find it hard to shoot a score of 4.0 straight. Rather it is more sensible to aspire 3.0 or 3.5.
Relevant- The objective must conform to what you want to do
The goal that is motivating is the one that is related to the personal or professional goal.
- Example: The reason is that I want B grade in this course because at least this is what will pass me to earn the degree.
- Having a reason as to why you desire an end to a goal makes you more motivated to pursue it.
Time-bound- Deadline is significant
Without a deadline on a goal it is merely a dream.
You are supposed to devise a deadline or milestone on your goal.
- Example: I will submit my research paper two days before the deadline.
- I will revise for the week every Sunday.
- Deadlines keep you focused and eliminate procrastination.
On-the-go example: A complete set of SMART goals
- Specific: “Achieve a 90% or higher score on the next assignment.”
- Measurable: “Complete each section by outlining it one section at a time every day and pay attention to teacher feedback.”
- Achievable: “Set aside two hours of study time every day and seek guidance when needed.”
- Relevant: “Maintaining a B grade is important so my GPA is in line with program requirements.”
- Time-bound: “I will submit assignments two hours before the deadline to have time to improve.”
How to get started? Use the SMART Goal Tools!
If you want to track SMART goals, these printable tools can be really helpful:
- Printable SMART Goal Tracker
- Printable SMART Goal Chart
- Printable SMART Goal Map
- You can stick these in your notebook or save them to digital notes.
Need help?
If you’re still confused about SMART goal planning, reach out to your college advisor.
Many universities have features like a Student Success Webpage where you can:
- Get help with planning
- Attend workshops on staying focused
- Learn time management skills
Conclusion:
SMART goals do not represent a theory but a practical method that might assist you in succeeding at the college level By setting your aims up as specific, measurable, achievable, and time-bound you make your goals highly targeted, self-confident and productive.