The start of a new year is a great time to set goals. For self-advocates, setting goals can help you build the life you want. When you know what you want to achieve, it’s easier to make a plan to get there. In this blog post, we’ll share how to set self-advocacy goals that work for you.
What Makes a Good Goal?
Good goals are specific. This means they focus on one part of your life. For example, being more independent is a big goal. Instead, you might set a goal to learn to use the local bus system. Or you might set a goal to get a job.
Good goals are also reasonable. They are things you can do with planning and hard work. You might dream of being a veterinarian. If you don’t have any experience, that’s not a reasonable goal. Instead, you might set a goal of learning how to become a vet. Or you might set a goal of getting a job as a vet technician.
Good goals have a timeframe. A timeframe is when you plan to reach your goal. It gives you a deadline to work toward. For example: “I will learn to ride the bus by March 1.” “I will apply for three vet tech jobs by July 1.”
Finally, good goals describe the resources you need to reach them. This can include information sources. For example, you can find local bus schedules online. It can also include help from people you know. If you have a job coach, they can help you apply for jobs.
Need Help Reaching Your Goals?
We have some great resources to help with your self-advocacy journey.
- Check out our free LearnWorlds courses on setting goals, solving problems, and making decisions: LearnWorlds Self-Advocacy Courses.
- You can also watch our YouTube series “Great Expectations.” You’ll learn how one self-advocate made a plan, faced challenges, and reached their goals: Great Expectations YouTube Playlist.
- Join the Self-Advocate Network. It’s easier to set and reach goals together than alone.
Start this year strong by setting goals that matter to you. With a good plan and support, you can make your dreams come true!