How to Set Personal Goals in Three Steps

Setting personal goals is hugely important for success in college as well as in life in general. Why? Because as humans we need explicit guidelines, or else we might find ourselves lost in the wilderness of our own thoughts.

You have to ask yourself why you are doing what you're doing right now. Are you proud of it? Does it have a noble purpose, or is it strictly about material gain, such as money? We have to learn why, how and when to do things.

This is where setting goals comes in, whether the goals are small, such as reaching a certain fitness target each month, or large, such as what to do with your life. That's why I urge you to plan right here and now what you want to do. It's time to set some goals! No more procrastination. This is how to do it.

1. Reflect on your aspirations and your life

Never underestimate the power of simply reflecting on life! Sit down and think about where your life is taking you and what you have to offer. We all have limited time, so what makes you want to live and keep striving? For me, it's my Islamic faith.

2. Ask yourself: why am I doing this?

If you come up with a positive and good reason, move on to step 3. If not, go back to step 1. Be honest with yourself.

3. Ask yourself: how should I do it?

Now it's time to set up the actual steps you need to take. Grab a pen and notebook and start dividing your plan into years, months and finally days. Always know what you are striving for, or you may never achieve your goals! For more detail, see our guide to personal goal setting.