How to Plan for Success

Here at Free 2 Fly we SUPPORT women by teaching them the skill of sewing. We NURTURE women through personal and professional mentorship. We EMPOWER women with the realization that they can be successful.

We have recently added a Work Ethics curriculum to our program and one of the things we will be going over is how to set clear, obtainable S.M.A.R.T. goals. Goals are important because through goal setting we are able to grow and expand in ways we didn't think possible. Through goal setting, we become better, more well rounded people.

Here's a few examples of the S.M.A.R.T. goals some of our women have been working on: 

• Earn high school equivalency
• Pay off medical bills
• Obtain drivers license 
• Get a place of her own 

and more!

What is a S.M.A.R.T Goal? 

Specific: 

Having a goal that isn't specific is a difficult for a couple reasons. If you set too broad of a goal, it's hard to measure (see point 2) and it's also difficult to know where to start. By creating a goal that it is specific, we are able to move forward and work toward something. 

Measurable: 

If you can't measure your success or lack there of, how do you know if you've completed your goal? When setting a goal you need to make sure there is a way of measuring it. Whether there be "steps" to completing the goal or you identify someone as an "accountability partner" that can help you keep you on track.

Achievable:

Of course we want to reach for the stars and set big goals, however setting too lofty of a goal, can leave you feeling overwhelmed by it. Therefore, you're less likely to continue to work toward something that feels unobtainable. Set a goal that is within reach, but still makes you stretch and work for it. 

Relevant:

Your goal should be relevant to your current stage of life. Setting a goal that doesn't fit or make sense for present day will leave you feeling discouraged. Make sure that your goal makes sense for you, where you are. 

 Time Based Goals:

Set a goal and then give yourself a timeline! Setting a time frame to achieve your goal will instill some urgency, and keep you on track to complete it. If you leave it open ended, you will be less likely to complete it in a timely matter, or at all. 

Setting goals can sometimes be overwhelming or scary, but if you take the time to set a S.M.A.R.T goal, you're more likely to follow through and complete it. We hope this is helpful and will encourage you to set some goals and stretch yourself!