I LOVE Setting goals! Call me crazy, but I have piles of papers with old goals written on them, stashed away in a place where I can go back and read and reread them to inspire me when I make my new goals. I love how personal goals are and how, really, the sky is the limit!
Let's talk about family goals. If you and your child set goals together, it can be fun--hear me out: There is a lot to balance in our lives, and looking ahead can sometimes be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! Start with goals that feel exciting and fun!
When you imagine that goal being achieved do you want to jump up shout for joy?! Then let's start there!
Why Should You Set Goals With Your Child?
Helps them to be more accountable for their learning
Provides a focus point amidst an otherwise busy schedule
Creates good habits
Helpful Tips for Setting Goals
Teach them the purpose of setting goals; what are they trying to accomplish? How can this benefit them both short term and long term? How can continuing to set goals be both motivating and beneficial?
Let them choose their “big” goal, and ask questions to help them learn more about what they are excited about
Use the 5Ws (Who, What, When, Where, Why… and How) to break down what they are thinking
Set smaller goals; this will help the big goal feel more attainable
Discuss ways to overcome obstacles and how failure is a launchpad to the next big thing
Keep track of what you discussed using a fun worksheet, colorful sticky notes, note cards, a cute notebook dedicated to goal writing and evaluating, etc.
Revise goals as needed; sometimes our goals are well-intended but become more overwhelming than motivating. If we take a step back, we can rethink our needs and decide how to make our plans challenging but within reach.
Staying Motivated
Give examples from your own life about when you overcame difficulties
Discuss the progress that they’ve made
Celebrate the small successes
Encourage positive talk and thinking
Model sticking to goals in your own life
Embrace failure! “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” -Thomas Edison
I'd love to hear the goals you set and celebrate with you as you accomplish them!
May this be a year of plenty.
Plenty of goals, plenty of wins, plenty of learning, plenty of joy!
xoxo
Christine :)
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