Setting your study goals

The word 'goal' has a great relevance in all our lives! As we head into the climax of the All-Ireland series, we know the excitement that scoring a goal can bring and we also know that in many instances goals win games. The word goal has a very positive meaning. It reflects the things that we want to excel at and achieve.

People who set goals achieve a lot more than people who don't. Listen to any of the great sports stars talking about their greatest achievements. Their ultimate goal was probably attained through the achievement of many smaller goals set along the way.

Goals give us direction and a clear focus, something to aim for. They enable us to monitor our progress and, if necessary, aim higher. They help us get started and reach our final destination.

When it comes to your study goals, there are some very simple rules that need to be followed.

Understand the task ahead, know what is required, be realistic, be courageous and be committed. To achieve your goal, you must be committed to it.

Most importantly, your goals must mean something to you -- they must be for you.

So, let's identify the key parts of a goal-setting exercise for Leaving Cert study. On the next page we look in detail at what is involved and at the dos and don'ts.


Supplements