RW - foRWard Health & Wellbeing eMag - Oct 25 - Flipbook - Page 20
Se琀琀ing clear career goals and
milestones for the year ahead
Use the SMART goals framework
When it comes to goal se琀琀ing, applying the
SMART framework can help you de昀椀ne clear,
actionable objectives:
• Speci昀椀c – De昀椀ne what you want to accomplish.
• Measurable – Establish metrics to track your
progress.
• Achievable – Ensure your goals are realistic
and a琀琀ainable.
• Relevant – Align goals with your career vision.
• Time-bound – Set deadlines.
Align goals with personal values
and career vision
Se琀琀ing goals that re昀氀ect your values will make you
more motivated and engaged. Take time to ensure
each goal supports both your career aspirations
and your personal priorities. For example, if
achieving a healthy work-life balance is important,
set goals around maintaining boundaries while
advancing in your role.
By approaching 2026 with both a clear vision
and a structured plan, you’re se琀琀ing yourself up
for a year of intentional progress.
Breaking down goals into actionable steps
To stay on track, break your goals down into
quarterly or monthly milestones. For example,
if your goal is to lead a new project, set a milestone
to initiate the project in Q1 and another to develop
project management skills by Q2.
Staying motivated and adjusting
goals along the way
Staying accountable: Accountability is key to
staying focused on your goals. Whether it’s
journaling, partnering with a colleague for mutual
support, or se琀琀ing reminders, 昀椀nd ways to stay
commi琀琀ed to your progress.
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledging small
achievements helps maintain motivation and
momentum. Celebrate even the small milestones,
like 昀椀nishing a challenging task or receiving positive
feedback.
Flexibility in goal se琀琀ing: Your circumstances
may change throughout the year, and so might
your goals. Be open to adapting your objectives
if a new career opportunity arises, or if life
circumstances shift.
Take action and set the
foundation for 2026
Re昀氀ecting on your career progress and se琀琀ing
clear goals are invaluable steps in shaping your
future. Block out time this week to think over your
accomplishments and challenges and set the
groundwork for a successful 2026. Your future
self will thank you.
Start your career progression journey today by
checking out our latest vacancies or exploring
more career advice.
