Goal Setting 101
Below is a very brief overview of goal setting. Although the same principles apply, this is focused on group/team goals vs individual goal setting. Goal setting is a skill and it takes practice.
The Less Talked About Benefits of Goal Setting:
Focus
Confidence
Energy
Purpose
Joy
Growth
SMART Goals
If you have not hear about SMART Goals not is the time. The is the gold standard of goal setting. If a goal does not have all of these characteristics it is not a g
S - Specific: This is where the goal starts. You need to clearly define what you want your goal to be, why you want it, who is involved, where it will happen, and what you need to accomplish the goal.
M - Measurable: Establish a concrete way to track progress. This could be a number, percentage, drill achievement, etc.
A - Achievable: Make sure the goal is realistic. It should be challenging but not impossible.
R - Relevant: Does the goal align with where you are? Does it make sense to go after the goal at this point?
T - Time-Bound: Set a specific timeline. Do not leave the goal open-ended.
It is important to re-evaluate throughout the process. If something is not working, make a change; however, do not confuse this with the goal feeling too hard so you give up. Also, a setback does not necessarily mean that you need to make changes. So when should you change direction? If you get stuck and are no longer seeing any progress, if you lose the desire to achieve the goal, or if the goal is no longer relevant are good reasons to reevaluate and change direction.
In the world of gymnastics, goal timeframes are set up like this:
Short-term Goals: 1 week up to 1 month
Medium-term Goals: 1 month-3 months (Season Goals)
Long-term Goals: 4 months-1 year
Team Goals:
The same principles still apply here. You will still use the SMART Goal strategies. The difference is that you need to take into account everyone’s skills and wants. Design goals that motivate the entire group.
Know the vision
Collaborate
Assign roles if applicable
Communicate the goals regularly
Hold accountability
Team Season Goal Setting (medium-term goals):
As a team, set event goals. For the score goal make it a team goal like 27.00. The confidence goal should be a goal that is outwardly visible such as perform floor routine with eyes up and expression. The mental goal is internal. An example could be redirect negative thoughts into positive thoughts.
Vault
Score Goal:
Mental Goal:
Confidence Goal:
Technique/skill Goal:
Bars
Score Goal:
Mental Goal:
Confidence Goal:
Technique/skill Goal:
Beam
Score Goal:
Mental Goal:
Confidence Goal:
Technique/skill Goal:
Floor
Score Goal:
Mental Goal:
Confidence Goal:
Technique/skill Goal:
