15 SMART Goals for the
New Year
1) Improve My Focus
"I will improve my focus during each class this term by leaving my phone in my bag, sitting alone instead of with friends, and ensuring I turn up well-hydrated and rested.”
Improving focus is important for better concentration and
comprehension during classes, leading to enhanced learning and academic
performance.
2) Obtain The Confidence To Give A Public Speech
“I will obtain the confidence to give a public speech by
practicing speaking from note cards in front of a mirror and friends for the
next 3 weeks.”
Improving public speaking confidence is essential for effective
communication in various settings, enhancing interpersonal skills, and
increasing self-assurance, which can positively impact personal and
professional opportunities.
3) Re-Submit My Essay
For A Higher Grade
“I will use the feedback provided on my essay to re-submit for a
higher grade within the 2-week timeframe I have been given by my teacher.”
Resubmitting the essay with feedback aims to enhance its quality,
demonstrating a commitment to academic improvement and a proactive approach to
learning. This can lead to better grades, a deeper understanding of the subject
matter, and improved overall academic performance.
4) Follow A Study Calendar For The Next 5 Weeks
“I will use a study calendar that states when and what I should
study. I will do this for 5 days a week for 5 weeks.”
Following a study calendar for the next 5 weeks is important as
it provides a structured approach to learning, promoting consistency and time
management. This helps optimize study sessions, increase productivity, and
ultimately enhances comprehension and retention of academic material.
5) Borrow One Book Per Month From The Library
“I will borrow one book per month from the library for six months
and read it fully in order to deepen my knowledge of sociology for my sociology
class.”
Borrowing one book per month from the library for six months is
beneficial for deepening knowledge in sociology, supporting academic success,
and fostering a habit of continuous learning. It enhances understanding of the
subject, contributes to academic excellence, and cultivates a lifelong
commitment to education.
6) Complete My Assignments 2 Weeks Before Due Date
“I will complete all assignments 2 weeks before the due dates so
I have 2 weeks of free time to edit the work without stress.”
Completing assignments two weeks before the due dates is crucial
for reducing stress and allowing ample time for thorough editing. This
proactive approach ensures the delivery of high-quality work, promotes better
time management and contributes to overall academic success.
7) Minimize Study Stress
“I will minimize the amount of stress I’m experiencing by exercising an hour a day, only studying for a
maximum of one hour per day, and meditating for 15 minutes after each study
session. I will do this for 5 weeks.”
Reducing study stress is important for overall well-being and
academic success. Incorporating daily exercise, limiting study sessions to one
hour, and practicing post-study meditation for 15 minutes can help maintain a
healthy balance. This approach supports mental and physical health, enhances
focus during study sessions, and contributes to a sustainable and effective
long-term learning routine.
8) Study For An Hour Before Class Daily
“I will study for one hour between 8 am and 9 am daily before
class Monday to Friday. I will study for the class that I will be sitting that
day and keep a journal of progress.”
Studying for an hour before class daily is crucial for proactive
preparation and academic success. This routine ensures a consistent and focused
review of the material, enhancing understanding and retention. Keeping a
progress journal provides a tangible record of academic development,
facilitating reflection and adjustment of study strategies for continuous
improvement.
9) Maintain A Regular Sleep Routine
“I will sleep for 9 hours a day by making sure I get into bed by
10 pm every night and set an alarm for 7 am each morning. This will keep me
fresh for classes.”
Maintaining a regular sleep routine, aiming for 9 hours of sleep
by going to bed at 10 pm and waking up at 7 am, is crucial for overall
well-being and academic performance. A consistent sleep pattern supports
physical and mental health, improves concentration during classes, enhances
memory consolidation, and ensures optimal cognitive functioning, contributing
to a more successful and productive daily routine
10) Research Five Potential Career Options
“I will spend 3 hours every Thursday night researching a
potential career option for 5 weeks straight. At the end of the 5th week, I
will rank all the career options based on my research.”
Researching five potential career options for 3 hours every
Thursday night for five weeks is essential for informed career decision-making.
This goal allows for a comprehensive exploration of various professions,
considering factors such as job satisfaction, growth prospects, and alignment
with personal interests and values. The ranking at the end of the fifth week
provides clarity, aiding in making well-informed career choices that align with
long-term goals and aspirations.
11) Meet Each Instructor In Open Office Hours Once
Per Semester
“I will meet each of my instructors during their open office
hours on Week 8 of the semester to go over my essay drafts.”
Meeting each instructor during their open office hours on Week 8
of the semester to discuss essay drafts is important for fostering a positive
student-instructor relationship. This goal facilitates personalized feedback,
clarifies expectations, and demonstrates proactive engagement in the learning
process. Regular interaction with instructors enhances understanding of course
material, improves academic performance, and establishes a supportive network
for future academic and professional endeavors.
12) Meet With My Study Group Weekly All Semester
“I will meet with my study group at 2.30 pm every Tuesday in the library
for one hour to compare notes about our studies. We will also meet to check
each other’s drafts during this
period when necessary.”
Meeting with your study group weekly at 2:30 pm every Tuesday in
the library for one hour is important for collaborative learning and academic
success. This regular engagement allows for the exchange of study materials,
discussion of course concepts, and mutual support in understanding challenging
topics. Additionally, checking each other's drafts fosters a collaborative
environment for constructive feedback, enhancing the overall quality of
academic work and promoting a sense of shared responsibility for success in the
course.
13) Complete All Homework Tasks By Wednesday
Each Week
“I will complete my homework tasks by Wednesday each week this
semester. To do this, I will remain at the university library on Tuesdays from
12 noon onwards.”
Completing all homework tasks by Wednesday each week is crucial
for effective time management and academic success. By dedicating focused study
time at the university library on Tuesdays from 12 noon onwards, you create a
structured routine. This approach ensures that assignments are completed
promptly, allowing for a more balanced workload throughout the week and reducing
the risk of last-minute stress. Consistently meeting this goal promotes a
proactive and disciplined approach to academic responsibilities, contributing
to improved learning outcomes and overall well-being.
14) Turn Up To Class On Time
“I will turn up to class five minutes before class begins for the
entire semester in order to change my habit of being late. To make this happen,
I will take the 8.05 am bus each morning.”
Arriving five minutes before the start of each class for the
entire semester is essential for establishing a punctual habit and maximizing
the learning experience. Taking the 8:05 am bus each morning supports this goal
by ensuring timely arrival. Being consistently punctual demonstrates
commitment, allows for better preparedness, and minimizes disruptions. This
habit contributes to a positive academic reputation, fosters a conducive
learning environment, and facilitates engagement with course material from the
beginning of each session.
15) Apply For Five Part-Time Jobs In My Career
Field
“I will apply for five part-time jobs in my career field by the
end of next week.”
Applying for five part-time jobs in your career field is crucial for gaining practical experience, expanding
professional networks, and increasing the likelihood of securing employment.
This goal demonstrates proactive career planning, enhances your understanding
of job market requirements, and provides opportunities for skill development.
The pursuit of part-time positions aligning with your career field contributes
to a competitive edge in future job searches and fosters valuable connections
within the industry.
By: Taras Ivanuts, career peer
