17 Jan Creating Goals for Yourself This Year
A new year gives us the opportunity to reflect on what we did in the past year, and focus on what we want to do in the future. One way to move forward is to set goals for yourself. We’re sharing some easy-to-follow steps for you to try, as well as some of our favorite videos on the topic.
Setting Goals
Mindy Govan, an expert who works with young adults with autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, uses the SMART method to teach goal-setting. This is her process:
Specific:
Set small goals that are very specific and clearly stated. Instead of making “read more” a goal, state “read one book per week” as your specific goal.
Measurable:
Set a measure so you can determine success. An example would be to walk one mile every day.
Attainable:
Are you motivated enough to achieve this goal? Unachievable goals or goals that are set to please others will only cause disappointment.
Realistic:
Do you have the means, skills, and ability to achieve the goal you are setting? It’s important to be honest with yourself about what you can reasonably do.
Timely:
Is this a goal that can be accomplished within the time frame you are considering? Sometimes it helps to break big goals into smaller ones, so you don’t become disappointed along the way.
Videos on Creating Goals for Yourself
Our free video library has an entire section devoted to self-care, and creating goals for yourself is part of that. Here are some videos we think will help you as you start to think about and plan to set goals for the year:
Setting Goals
This short, animated video is geared towards college students, but the advice is great for anyone. This video also explains the SMART method (described above) in more detail.
Autism: Empower Yourself and Reach Your Goals
One of our favorite vloggers, Dan from The Aspie World, gives an uplifting talk about setting goals. He uses his first-hand experience to empower those on the spectrum to set goals and explore their creative side.
Planning and Setting Goals for Autism
This video talk from autism expert Mary Barbera is intended for parents who are working with school or other professionals to set goals for children with autism. She guides parents through how to use assessment results to set appropriate goals, but the advice can be applicable for others who want to learn how to set attainable goals.
The Adolescent/Adult Goal Setting Tool (AAGST) Instruction Video
This is an instructional video from Autism Queensland that shows how to use a specific tool, but the ideas are helpful even if you don’t have the cards. The Adolescent/Adult Goal Setting Tool is a pack of 74 illustrated goal cards that can be used flexibly to meet individual needs.
The information in these videos and links will help you whether you are an individual with autism, a caregiver, or a teacher. If you need more assistance, our team is always happy to help. Reach out and let us know how we can help you worry less and live more.