Making Goals (And Actually Reaching Them)

Let’s face it, no big changes can happen without plans for reaching them. It’s kind of like the GPS to get to your destination. Let’s focus on how to successfully learn and change with this guide to goal-setting. Though we’re focusing on language goals here, this approach works just as well for any other goals you might have, too!

1. Think and reflect

Take some time to consider what it is that you’re ready to change, or to start on. Is it simply time to start learning something new, is it to feel confident with speaking another language in a specific setting, like at work or with loved ones?  Whatever it is, take some time to sit down, sip some coffee, and think about the changes you’d like to see happen.

2. Write it down

Now grab your notebook and put it to words. Whatever it is that you thought of earlier, it will become more real when you can see and read it on a piece of paper. That way, you’ll get closer to knowing exactly what you want and how to get yourself there.

3. Share it with the world

Or just a friend, that is. Have you ever noticed that if you don’t share your goals with someone else, you don’t feel as accountable to actually make them happen? We definitely have. That’s why we encourage you to create your community—whether it be one person, or five—and tell them about your  goals. Want to take it a step further?

4. Prioritize

Now that you know *what  *you’re ready to do, you have to think about *when. *Are your goals long-term or short-term? Can you chip away at them for 10 minutes each day, or just once a week? Be realistic with yourself. If you overreach too soon, you’ll feel worn out and unmotivated before you even begin.

5. Get to work

The first step is often the hardest, but you’ve got to start somewhere. Maybe begin with the easiest thing on your to-get-done list, like finding out what language level you should take. Or, clean up your desk area to make room for all the learning that will be happening. Whatever it is, it’ll get easier once you make it a part of your daily routine.

6. Keep the momentum

So you made it through week one. You spent a little bit of time every day chipping away at each goal, and you reached your weekly target. Awesome! But make sure to keep yourself on track, and not burn out too soon. Step number 7 will help you with this one.

7. Reflect: round two

At the end of each week, take a minute to return to your goals. What did you do that helped you reach them? What did you do this week that didn’t? Be honest with yourself! Sunday mornings are the perfect time to do this while you prep for the upcoming week. This step is essentially self-constructive criticism, and while it may not be the most fun, it is definitely the most necessary.

8. Celebrate

Acknowledge your successes! If you’re feeling accomplished, take some time to do something just for you. Whether it’s splurging on a latte, buying some flowers, or just taking a long bath, you deserve it.

Feeling motivated? That’s what we love to hear. Head to our Instagram share your progress on your goals.