It is a new year, and for many of us, that means new resolutions or fresh goals. New Year’s resolutions have existed in some form for thousands of years and have evolved into the modern self-improvement ritual we know today.
There is ample research showing that setting goals can change behavior in measurable ways. Scientists studying human performance consistently find that goals direct our attention, sharpen our focus and strengthen our persistence (Locke & Latham, 2002).
You may be familiar with the phrase “big hairy audacious goal” (BHAG), made popular by Jim Collins. Although initially intended for organizations, BHAGs can be just as valuable for individuals. Someone once told me that if you are achieving every goal you set, you are probably not aiming high enough. Stretch goals should push us just far enough outside our comfort zones to spark growth.
Most people have also heard of SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely) goals. But we may be more successful when we think in terms of ranges. For example, if you are an author, instead of setting a goal to write one chapter, try setting a goal to write two to four pages. Ranges help reduce the all-or-nothing mindset and keep momentum going. Once you start, you may find it easier to continue.
After you have identified your goals, write them down. Research shows that doing so makes you 42% more likely to achieve them because it increases clarity and commitment (Matthews, 2015).
Sharing your goals with someone else—especially someone who will hold you accountable—further boosts your chances of success. Mentors, including those available through ASSP’s common interest groups and practice specialties, can be invaluable partners in the process.
We often delay, or never begin, pursuing our goals for several reasons: believing we do not have enough time, lacking confidence or chasing goals that are not truly our own. But progress does not require large blocks of time. Small, consistent effort can be incredibly powerful.
Author and speaker Robin Sharma often writes about how small daily improvements accumulate into remarkable results. My first boss, Dr. Marc Vink, encouraged me to strive to be just 1% better every day. He read EHS journals and trade magazines daily to keep learning. Over time, he became recognized as an expert in our field—proof that mastery can be built through consistent, incremental effort.
A lack of confidence can also hold us back. No one likes the possibility of failing, but real growth requires getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Many people have confided that they hesitate to speak at an ASSP event or write for PSJ because they fear judgment or making a mistake. But ASSP members are among the most supportive colleagues you will ever meet. Just look at the congratulatory comments on LinkedIn whenever members share their achievements.
As you set and pursue your professional goals this year—whether they are small, easily achievable steps or bold BHAGs—remember that you are not alone. ASSP and our community of more than 36,000 members are here to support you every step of the way.
Achieving Your Goals
Here are a few ways ASSP can help you achieve your goals:
References
Locke, E.A. & Latham, G.P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705-717. https://doi.org/d4d932
Matthews, G. (2015). Goal achievement study: Dominican University of California. Dominican University of California.