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Setting goals

In this article, Heather Jacksic explains the benefits of settings goals and the risks of not having them.
Two people walking on a steep road up a mountain, towards a red flag.
Setting goals is very important in order to realise your vision of getting your dream job. But why is this the case?

There are actually a lot of benefits that come with setting a goal:

  • Having goals gives clarity of your end vision
    • They’ll help you see where you want to go
    • You’ll work harder when you know where you’re going
  • Goals drive you forward
    • You’ll be motivated to move forward in what you want to do
  • Goals increase your focus
    • You’ll know what to focus your attention on
  • Goals make you accountable
    • You’ll be less likely to make up excuses for not getting things done
    • You’ll prioritise better
    • You can follow up your progress and determine if you need to change anything in order to reach your goal
Goals transform insurmountable mountains into walkable hills.

Breaking down larger goals into several smaller steps (called tactics) makes them easier to do and less overwhelming. And before you know it you will have achieved your goal!

What if I don’t set goals?

Not setting any goals can often lead to problems which will in turn make it less likely that you will achieve the things you want to achieve.

If you don’t set goals, you won’t have a clear routine. Most people who don’t have some sort of routine suffer more from stress and anxiety, and tend to act impulsively. Impulsive actions can often sabotage people’s success.

But what do you think? Do you agree? Does not setting goals affect you negatively? Or do you see the benefits of setting goals? Please share your thoughts with other learners in the comments section below.

© Luleå University of Technology
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