Goal Setting for 2021...

We can all agree that 2020 was one of the craziest, oddest years for everyone, including those who are just entering post-secondary, in their final semesters at university, or somewhere in between. We have completely transitioned from in-person learning to online schooling – something that is not easy. Like many of you, I sit down at the end of each year and begin to think about my goals and aspirations for the next 12 months. As usual, I sat down a few days ago after finishing my last exam to brainstorm and get ready for 2021. However, I hit a mental roadblock almost immediately. There were so many goals I had written down for 2020 that were pushed to the back burner and never revisited as a result of the pandemic limitations. I had wanted to travel to Greece, host exciting in-person WIBA events, and spend more time with my family back in Ontario. So when I sat down to come up with new goals, I didn’t really know what to do or where to start.

A lot of uncertainty surrounds the future, particularly for those of us graduating in spring of 2021. I’m not sure where I’ll be living, working, or what “graduation” will even look like. It’s scary, and there’s not much in our control other than how we go about planning and prepping for the months to come.

I’ve decided to compile a list of my top three tips for 2021 goal setting, as this year will bring new challenges, chances for growth, and likely many opportunities to learn from our mistakes and failures.

1. Think long-term.

This one is pretty self-explanatory. However, I think it’s important to recognize that not all of our goals actually need to be achievable in 2021. This is a bit ironic because we hear a lot about SMART goals, where the “T” stands for time-based. I personally believe that a goal you’re able to put a clear time constraint on will only cause anxiety and unwanted pressure if it isn’t achieved. This is extremely relevant for 2021, as we continue to navigate the pandemic and its associated restrictions.

2. Get bigger than yourself.

Yes, goals are meant to be personal but they should also keep in mind those around you. One of my aspirations for 2021 is to give back to the community through fundraising and volunteering with local charities and organizations (online of course). Achieving goals that are bigger than yourself are much more rewarding, and have a greater impact. Especially in a pandemic, it’s important to think about those who may be struggling to make ends meet or are experiencing health implications. This could also mean simply reaching out to friends and family who you aren’t able to see as frequently, and who may need some extra support.

3. Compromise.

Compromise is by far the most important aspect of my 2021 goal setting. We should be preparing alternative options for our aspirations and what we hope to achieve. While many of us fourth year students wish to travel internationally upon graduation, this will likely not be feasible. Instead, consider how you could take this time to save up for a bigger trip, or how you could travel within your own province and support local businesses. I also highly recommend revisiting your goals every month or so and making adjustments where necessary.

About the author:

Emily Yach is a fourth year student at Dalhousie University. She is the President of the Rowe Women in Business Association and has been involved with WIBA since her first year.