Creating Goals and Plans

As adults we can look back on many things we have accomplished, such as getting an education, getting a job, and raising children. Some of the best things we have done happened because we decided what we wanted in life and then worked toward those goals.
Sometimes when we write down our goals it is easier to achieve them. Its important to write goals in a way that makes it clear what you will do and when, in order to achieve your goal.
For example, your child may have the goal of keeping their room clean. Keeping your room clean is a great idea but it is not clearly defined as a goal. The goal becomes specific by stating "I will put my dirty clothes in a hamper and return my books and games to their shelves every night before bedtime." This gives a clear picture of what your child should do and when he or she will do it.
Here are some ideas that may help you in developing goals with your child:

• Describe what the goal is. Make it realistic.
• Set the due date.
• Provide motivation by listing reasons why this goal is important.
• Brainstorm tasks that must be completed to reach the goal.
• Set a due date for each task.
• Track progress
• Make changes in tasks, dates due,if needed.
• Evaluate