Practice the character development core competency of self-management with this specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-specific (SMART) goal-setting activity.
From early Babylonian civilizations to ancient Romans, humans have engaged in goal-setting practices for more than 4,000 years! Goal-setting is a practice that transcends age and culture and can have numerous researched-backed benefits, including better motivation, performance, and relationships. Goal-setting can also be effective in helping to combat depression and anxiety.
With this exercise, students learn such character-building competencies as self-management, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making.
How we set goals is just as important as the goals themselves. When many of us think about setting goals, we think about New Year’s resolutions. As many as 45% of Americans say they make New Year’s resolutions, but only 8% successfully keep them.
While there are numerous reasons why goals aren’t actualized, research shows it is often the goal-setting method that can make or break one’s chances at success. One popular and proven method of setting goals is by following the SMART framework. SMART stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-specific.
The SMART framework helps guide users to set challenging yet achievable and measurable goals. It’s an encouraging, motivating way to find tangible and meaningful success.
For this exercise you’ll need the “SMART Goal-Setting Guide” printed or visible via a smartboard; and the My SMART Goal worksheet for all participating students. We encourage you to start this activity by setting your own goals–character development begins with YOU!
Take a moment to reflect on some goals you have for yourself and write them out using the SMART goal-setting guide. Then share your goals with your students and help them create their own SMART goals using our downloadable goal-setting activity!
Teaching goal-setting strategies contributes to a student’s self-management skills while encouraging self-awareness and responsible decision-making–all of which are essential facets and competencies of character development.
