Extra: Goal Setting: Are you on the winning or losing team?

Excited about going back to school? Well, even if your answer is no, I have some good news for you. School, and life in general, can be a lot more meaningful and happy if you decide to set some goals for yourself. I mean, let's be honest, you aren't going to achieve anything by watching that episode of "I Love New York" one more time! So let’s get started!

Why should I set a goal?

One word: SUCCESS! It feels so good to work hard for something and see that you accomplished it. With goal setting, you can learn the skills necessary to help your dreams become reality.

How do I get started?

First, be honest with yourself. Have a goal-defining session. Actually sit down with a piece of paper and answer questions like the following (yes, that means NO T.V. on, radio blaring, cell phone talking…You get the idea!) and take all the time you need:

-What do I want out of life?
-What do I most enjoy doing?
-What makes me happy?
-What do I value?
-Who is someone I admire and what characteristics do they have?
-If I could solve a world problem, what would it be?
-What am I good at?
-What makes me motivated?
-Where do I see myself in 5 years?
-Where would I like to go?

I know what I want. Now what?

1. Define your goals. Now be careful. This is NOT a wish list! Make them something you can achieve. Ladies, maybe you will marry Nick Jonas or Chris Brown. Gentleman, maybe you will marry Mariah Carey or Rihanna. But for now, let’s just focus on some basic stuff, like graduating high school or going to college.

2. Brainstorm the steps needed to achieve your goals. Do this step for each individual goal. If needed, research the goal online or at the library or talk to school counselors for guidance on how to reach the goal.

3. Go over the possible roadblocks to accomplishing the goals and how to deal with them. For example, are their financial problems or time constraints to accomplishing the goal?

4. Make deadlines. Don't be overwhelmed by large goals, set small goals to help meet the large goals.

5. And finally, talk to someone about getting help to reach your goals. Your guidance counselor, mentor, teacher, parents, and health department are some great places to start.

Remember: It feels good to meet your goals! Work hard, succeed, and watch as your life dreams come true!

For more information, please contact Christina Hanson, Adolescent Health & Youth Development Consultant for the Coastal Health District, at 912.414.9851 or clhanson@dhr.state.ga.us.

WWW Address: http://www.gachd.org/extra/goal_setting_are_you_on_the_wi.php