From the Dean of Curriculum

Setting Milestones

So, you’ve sat down, done the thinking, and how you have a refined list of your dream goals. Now what?

When you’re just looking at the end result, it might seem a bit scary and like a lot of work. How are you supposed to get from where you are now to your end goal? This is where milestones come in handy.

Think of milestones as almost like mini goals you complete along the way to your big goal. They are stepping stones to keep you on the right path, and can make the journey to your dream goal seem a bit less overwhelming.

Why should you set milestones?

As we just mentioned, milestones are a way of tracking progress towards your goal. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to complete your entire goal in just one step. Milestones are the steps you take along the way.

Think of it like this:  say your goal is to get into your dream course at university. What are the things you’ll need to do along before you can achieve this goal? Maybe you’ll need to pass a specific class, or earn a high enough ATAR. These are your milestones. You could even count things like finishing your applications on time.

If your goal is to save for a holiday, your milestones could be reaching certain amounts in your savings account (saving $100, then $500, then $1,000, and so on).

Milestones are a great way of getting a sense of achievement as you work towards your goals. You deserve to be rewarded for all the hard work you put in, not just right at the end, so celebrating milestones is a good way to boost your enthusiasm too.

How to set milestones

Setting milestones is pretty simple. Once you’ve written down your end goal, sit back and just think about the steps you’ll need to take to reach your goal. Pick out the most important steps, and these are your milestones.

The importance of planning

If you just mindlessly set a goal and don’t think much more about it, chances are you won’t achieve it. We know it can be frustrating, but doing some planning before and after you set your goals can set you up for success in the long run. Milestones are a part of this planning.

Whatever your future goals are, we wish you the best in achieving them!

Mrs Alicia Michielsen

Dean of Curriculum 7-12

Head of Learning Enrichment P-12

Careers Advisor