Structuring your goals for success
Setting goals is like planning a road trip: you need a map, snacks, and a killer playlist to keep you going. But without a clear plan, you might end up circling the same roundabout or taking a detour through Frustrationville. Let’s dive into different methods for setting and structuring your goals. Whether you’re aiming to become a kitesurfing legend, finally learn to cook something other than instant noodles, or hit a career milestone, there’s a method here for you.
For example, my goal is to become an insanely good kitesurfer on a directional board in 365 days. And, to be honest, I could use a little extra structure. Right now, I’m just kind of floating around, not really sure how to make this happen.
SMART goals: The overachiever’s dream
SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, if your goal is to become an insanely good kitesurfer on a directional board in a year, a SMART goal might look like this: “I will master directional board skills by practicing every time the wind is 16 knots or more in a safe direction (no offshore winds) and nail specific manoeuvres like jibes, tacks, jumps, and wave riding within 12 months.” This way, you know exactly where you’re going, how to get there, and when you’ll arrive—no unnecessary pit stops.
How to structure it:
Week 1-4: Get comfortable with the basics (like standing without falling).
Month 2-3: Start upwind riding without looking like a wind-blown ragdoll.
Month 4-6: Dive into wave riding (and hopefully not into the waves themselves).
Month 7-9: Master complex manoeuvres like tacks, jibes, and jumps—and make them look easy.
Month 10-12: Polish your skills and prepare to show off (safely, of course).
OKR: Ambition on steroids
OKR stands for Objectives and Key Results. It’s like setting a goal and then giving yourself a to-do list of how to achieve it, but with more flair. OKRs are great for those who like to aim high. If your objective is to become an expert kitesurfer, your key results might include mastering specific techniques, logging practice hours, and hopefully not face-planting during a local competition. It’s all about keeping your eye on the prize (and your board on the water).
How to structure it:
Quarterly objectives: Set big goals, like "Dominate directional board kitesurfing."
Monthly key results: Break these down into measurable results, like "Successfully complete 50 jibes without embarrassing wipeouts this month.
WOOP: The realist’s method
WOOP stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan. It’s like goal-setting for realists—those who know that life is less “smooth sailing” and more “dodging obstacles.” WOOP is your reality check. You’ll visualize your goal, identify what might go wrong (because something always does), and plan for it. For example, if your wish is to become a kitesurfing pro, your outcome might be mastering wave riding. Your obstacle? Maybe it’s bad weather or your tendency to procrastinate. Your plan? Adjusting your schedule or setting smaller milestones. Simple, right?
How to structure it:
Wish: Define your goal, like becoming a kitesurfing ninja.
Outcome: Picture yourself riding waves like a pro.
Obstacle: Identify what could go wrong, like bad weather, motivation dips, or physical fitness.
Plan: Create a backup plan for when things inevitably go sideways.
BHAG: Go big or go home
Big Hairy Audacious Goal. Think of it as the moonshot of goal-setting—huge, bold, and maybe a little crazy. Perfect for those who believe in going big or going home. A BHAG gives you something to dream about. Want to be one of the top 10 kitesurfers in your region? That’s a BHAG. It’s meant to inspire and challenge you, so you’re not just playing it safe.
How to structure it:
Year 1: get your fundamentals down and build serious skills.
Year 2-3: level up to advanced techniques and start competing.
Year 4-5: aim to be at the top of your game—think less “aspiring” and more “achieving.”
The 1-3-5 rule: The daily juggler’s guide
The 1-3-5 rule is a method where you focus on 1 big goal, 3 medium goals, and 5 small goals each day or week. It’s like juggling, but with goals instead of balls. This rule keeps you from getting overwhelmed and ensures you’re always moving forward. If your big goal is mastering kitesurfing, your medium goals might be practicing specific skills, and your small goals could be things like watching tutorial videos or stretching. It’s a balanced approach that keeps you productive without burning out.
How to structure it:
Daily/Weekly Plan: Each day or week, tackle one big goal (e.g., practice kitesurfing), three medium goals (e.g., improve jibes), and five small goals (e.g., stretch, watch tutorials, eat something healthy).
Review: At the end of the day/week, see how you did and plan for the next round.
Goal-setting methods at a glance
Choose your own adventure
So, which goal-setting method is right for you? That depends on your personality, your goals, and how you like to work. Whether you go for the structure of SMART goals, the ambition of a BHAG, or the daily focus of the 1-3-5 rule, remember that the key is to stay flexible and adjust as needed. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes the wind doesn’t blow the way you want it to.
The important thing is to keep moving forward, stay motivated, and, most importantly, have fun with it. After all, goals are about making life better, not turning it into a chore. So pick a method, set your course, and enjoy the ride!
Personally, I think the SMART goal with a bit of 1-3-5 thrown in could work wonders for me. You know, mix and match to your liking. I like big goals, but I also need some down-to-earth time to stay aware of what I’m working for every week. So a 1-3-5 weekly plan might help me do better with that—maybe with a touch of WOOP in there.
The sad part about kitesurfing is, of course, the wind. You never know if there will be wind this week or not, so consistency might be a challenge. Make sure you factor that into your planning as well.
So write down your goals and go crush them!
xox Berit