taking charge (2nd ed.), chapter 1.3

Planning Your Future

Section 1.3: Achieving Your Dreams

Taking Charge: Chapter 1

© 2010 TSTC Publishing

Professional Goals


Now, in college, is the perfect time to discuss professional goals

Find out whether your career offers advancement opportunities

SMART: SpecificSpecific

Visualize yourself working in your chosen field

Write your vision in your journalBe as detailed as possible


SMART: MeasurableMeasurable

Set your goals in measurable unitsIncremental success builds job satisfaction

and self-confidenceFocus on factors you can control


SMART: Attainable & RealisticAttainable and Realistic

Unrealistic expectations only bring disappointment

Reach for high standards that stimulate and challenge you

Goals should be flexible and transient so you control them


SMART: TimedTimed

Consider if the career you choose offers advancement opportunities

Set a tentative time line for reaching various levels


Steer Your Ship to Safe HarborCheck your expectations against the

SMART rule and the THREE P’sKnow the facts

What does your career payWhat education is required

Keep your journal close


One Final ThoughtBe aware of dream stealers

People in your lifeDistractionsTime management


Further ReflectionsWhat goals have you already set for your

professional life?How do you vision yourself in your career?Where do you want to be in five years?


Additional ResourcesSalary.com

http://www.salary.com U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor

Statistics http://www.bls.govSetting & Achieving Career Goals http://

lifeskills.endlex.com/article/career_goals.html


taking charge (2nd ed.), chapter 1.3

Education