Setting Time Management Goals - The Key to Feeling Less Pressure
If you take the time to plan and to set goals, you'll create a strong basis for managing your time and you'll feel more in control of your life.
Setting your goals helps ensure you get to spend time how you want to. Here are some ways to set goals.
SMART Goals
Be "SMART" when setting your goals by remembering the following:
- Specific - Vague, general goals don't really help you to make plans to achieve them; there are no specific steps to take. Being as specific as possible helps you to break down the goals into steps which you accomplish to achieve the overall goal. Example: "1 want to attend the Normandy Business School in France for 8 weeks next Fall" as opposed to "I want to study abroad before I graduate."
- Measurable - You want to know that you are progressing toward your goal by completing measurable steps along the way. Example: "To be accepted to the program, I need to have a 2.75 CPA and submit the application packet with my transcript, personal statement, and recommendation letter" as opposed to "1 should see if they have some information online about the program."
- Attainable - If your goals are unattainable, you may get discouraged and avoid working toward them. This does not mean you can't aim high; just be sure that you know your goal is attainable given the right amount of time and effort. Example: "I will set aside $75 from each paycheck to pay for my travel and housing expenses" as opposed to "I'll start saving my loose change so 1 can have some money for my trip."
- Realistic - Be sure that you are not overestimating your skills, time or energy when setting goals. You are less likely to succeed if you try to extend beyond your capabilities. Example: "I will take a basic French class next semester and purchase a pocket translator for my trip" as opposed to "I will become fluent in French over the summer."
- Timely - Include time parameters; having a deadline makes your goal a higher priority. Otherwise, you may find that you never quite get around to accomplishing the goals you set for yourself. Example: "I will meet with an Education Abroad advisor before December 1 to discuss the program and its requirements, and I will submit my application packet no later than February 15" as opposed to "I need to talk to someone about applying soon-there's probably a deadline of some sort."
For more information and workshops on setting goals, contact the Counseling Center at 813-974-2831.
Rick Temple, Ph.D., Psychologist,
USF Counseling Center