Setting effective goals contributes substantially to success and a good quality of life, since every time we achieve a goal we gain strength and confidence. Through the Woli app activity called “Set S.M.A.R.T goals”, children learn to set their own effective goals. It is therefore important to empower them in this endeavor. Let’s see how.
To begin with, it is very useful to explain to children that in order to create an effective goal they must make their desire specific. Research shows that when we set specific goals we are more likely to achieve them. In order for children to better understand this process, it is advisable to give them various examples with specific and non-specific goals so that they understand the difference and grasp the importance of setting desires in a specific way.
Also, for an effective goal setting it is equally important to help children learn that the goals they set need to be achievable and realistic. More specifically, in order to be able to achieve their goals, they must be proportional to their capabilities and be able to occur in the reality and conditions of their life.
Finally, the effort to formulate effective goals is completed by highlighting to children the value of creating measurable and time-limiting goals. In order to turn ideas into clear and complete goals, you should explain to them that it is necessary to make them measurable, using for example numbers (eg: I want to get 18/20 grade in the test), as well as with a time limit and duration (eg: I will do gymnastics 3 times a week, for 60 minutes, in the next 3 months). Thus, children learn to identify their goals and commit to them.
So, try to “practice” the above with your children in a fun way and with many everyday examples. In the end you will be surprised with how quickly and effectively they will learn to form their own ideas and desires into effective goals.
