Achievable – Attainable Goals

In this blog post, we will be discussing what achievable goals are, why they are important and how you can create them for yourself. 

In occupational therapy, we use this goal-setting strategy with clients, to reach milestones in their therapy, but let’s go back to the basics. Occupational therapy is the process in which we help clients to achieve what they want to achieve, regardless of barriers and diagnosis. We work in a client-centred way, where they are the facilitators of their own success but equipped with tools and strategies to overcome challenges sustainably.

Have you read our previous blog about the benefits of occupational therapy? Read it here. 

What are Achievable Goals?

Achievable goals are goals that we can work towards which are firstly within reach, but also provide tangible success. Setting goals enables us to measure this success step by step. Achievable goals are entirely bespoke to each individual and their wants and needs, therefore no two goals are the same. For some it could be organising the food shop, collecting it from town and then cooking dinner. For others, it could be taking their first steps following a traumatic accident. Another example could also be using time management strategies to help organise their working day more effectively including rest breaks, exercise and breaking down work tasks to ensure optimum productivity.

According to Hubgets.com ‘Achievable goals are the pinnacle of a smart goal-setting strategy. Goals are high-productivity enablers. By itself, goal-setting provides structure to an individual or team efforts.’ 

How to Create Achievable Goals:

Goal setting is all about planning.

Firstly write down the goal in as much detail as possible. Include potential barriers, and a plan to overcome them if and when they arise. It’s far better to have a backup plan you never need that no plan when a problem presents itself).

Next, include measurable identifiers (when, how, by how much). It’s important you can track progress and results.

Lastly, ensure it is actually possible to achieve your desired goal, you’ll be surprised how many of us have unrealistic expectations of ourselves. 

Why don’t you try and set yourself an achievable goal, let us know how you get on!