How to Set SMART Goals

SMART stands for specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound. These guidelines can help sharpen your focus in the short-term so you can reach your end goal!

Step by Step: Critical Milestones That Lead to College Planning Success

My Journey On-Demand Session

It’s no secret — college and career planning can be overwhelming. During this presentation, we’ll pull back the curtain and identify critical milestones that will help students and families plan for success.

The session will highlight 9th and 10th-grade college prep behaviors and break down time sensitive college application advice for 11th and 12th graders. Learn how a counselor helped students explore careers, jobs, and various types of colleges to help them arrive at a balanced college match list that met their needs.

Tips to Staying on Track

Set small goals. SMART goals can be big goals, but sometimes it helps to break them down even further to understand what you need to do daily to stay motivated.

Track your progress. Keep a journal, take a photo, download an app, or create a sticker chart to hold yourself accountable. Having tangible evidence of your growth can help you visualize the progress you’re making.

Reward yourself. Think of a little treat that’s worth working toward. Maybe it’s a new notebook, a movie night, or scoop of ice cream. Whatever it is, make it an item or experience you can enjoy knowing it’s a reward for staying on track.

Forgive yourself. If you miss a day or small milestone, don’t let it derail your progress entirely.