it's about time - academic support

It’s About Time: Turning What You Want

Into Goals You Can Achieve

Carolyn Rubin, M.S. EdYeshiva University

Associate Director of Academic Support116 Laurel Hill Terrace

646-685-0109academicsupport.wilf@yu.edu

A goal is a dream with a deadline

(Napoleon Hill 1883-1970)

What Do I Want?

To improve my gradesTo go to collegeTo get a jobTo learn how to play an instrumentTo visit my cousin in CaliforniaTo get along with my familyTo be a famous singer

Make your wants a reality by creating SMART goals

What are SMART goals?

SpecificMeasurable

ActionRealistic

Time

What specific result do I want?

Specific

Not specific: I want to improve my grades.

Specific: I want to raise my grade in science by 5 points by the end of the term.

How will I measure my progress?

Measurable

Not measurable: I want to lose a lot of weight.

Measurable: I want to lose 10 pounds by June 1 and will weigh myself every Monday for the next 3 months.

What action do I need to take?

ActionIncorrect:I will study to improve my

grades.

Correct: I will read the textbook and review my notes for 20 minutes twice a week.

Is this something I can achieve?

Realistic

Not realistic: I want to score 50 points in the next basketball game.

Realistic:I want to hit 7 out of 10 free throws.

What is the time frame for my goal?

TimeIncorrect: I want to learn to play an

instrument.

Correct:I want to learn to play the “Star Spangled Banner” on piano by

June 15.

Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take

your eyes off your goal

(Henry Ford)

Why do you procrastinate?

Fear of failureNot sure how to get startedYou can’t make me do itWho wants to do that?Lack of energy or focusIt needs to be perfect

How Should I Spend My Time?

Based on Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, Stephen Covey