Goal setting is important for several reasons:
Clarity and Focus: Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals provides clarity and focus. It helps individuals identify what they want to achieve and creates a roadmap for how to get there.
Motivation: Goals give individuals something to strive for and provide motivation to take action. Having clear goals can increase persistence and determination, especially when faced with challenges or setbacks.
Direction: Goals provide direction and purpose in life. They help individuals prioritize their time, energy, and resources toward activities that align with their objectives, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Accountability: Setting goals holds individuals accountable for their actions. When goals are established and shared with others, there is a sense of responsibility to follow through and achieve them.
Measurement and Progress: Goals allow individuals to track their progress and measure their success. By breaking down larger goals into smaller milestones, individuals can celebrate achievements along the way, which boosts confidence and momentum.
Personal Growth: Working toward goals can lead to personal growth and development. It challenges individuals to step out of their comfort zones, learn new skills, and overcome obstacles, fostering resilience and self-improvement.
Decision Making: Having clear goals can facilitate decision-making. When faced with choices or opportunities, individuals can assess whether they align with their goals and make informed decisions that move them closer to achieving them.
Overall, goal setting provides a framework for success, guiding individuals toward their desired outcomes and helping them realize their full potential. It empowers individuals to take control of their lives, pursue their passions, and create a future they desire.
A simple goal a student could set before they begin their lesson.
My goal today is to be able to move away safely in various road and traffic conditions.
I want my instructor to plan the routes, and provide the necessary routes so I can do this. Gradually increasing the difficulty of the situation.
I rate my progress currently around 5, I want to reach about 8:10 and I will know this when I can do it under pressure this is my aim.
We should perform this for around 30minutes of my time and then assess my progress.
Of course there would be a in depth discussion around the progress they have made and the specifics of where they are.
This student has come to the session and made a clear outline of what they want to achieve, its then up to the instructor to facilitate that learning the best they can.
If the learning was lead by the instructor then it could mean the student ends up doing something they don't want to achieve.
I often liken it to getting your hair cut. No one walks in to the hairdressers and expects the barber to tell you what haircut you should have but they will make suggestions about what is possible.