Goal Setting

2022 is the year for setting goals and new years resolutions; this includes challenging yourself with new goals outside of the comfort zone. This might range from learning a new skill such as cooking, committing to a healthy diet and sleep schedule or becoming fluent in a foreign language.

However, it's still important to keep the SMART criteria in mind - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely.

Specific: Make your goals specific and narrow for effective planning

Measurable: Define what evidence will prove you're making progress and reevaluate when necessary

Attainable: Make sure you can reasonably accomplish your goal within a certain timeframe

Relevant: Your goals should align with your values and long-term objectives

Timely: Set a realistic, ambitious end-date for task prioritisation and motivation

This ensures that motivation remains high and steady throughout the year - burnout (from setting too unrealistic of a standard) is one of the primary reasons why goals are unsuccessful!

For instance, my overarching objective for 2022 is to learn a new language.

Goals can be set in small milestones, such as 'I will be well versed in Spanish greetings by the end of February'. In addition, a great way to keep track of goals is to keep a hardcopy (such as a diary or calendar) to have that personal satisfaction when physically marking off goals. Otherwise, digitalised goals may be the way for you - this might include having frequent reminders from PC or mobile applications to ensure that you remain on the right path!

By exploring outside of your 'comfort zone', you will have greater experiences and meet new people with similar interests.

By Alicia Tang (Publications Subcommittee)