Goal Setting For Success


Day 2 with the 8th graders and I wanted to expand on the values lesson from yesterday (click here for the values lesson).  We talked about the quote, “Values are like fingerprints.  Nobody’s are the same, but you leave them all over everything you do.”  But first, we talked about goals.  This class had already talked about SMART goals in health class last year, but it was definitely time for a refresher.  I asked them to think about 3 life goals that they had for themselves.  I gave them each 3 colored copies of worksheets I had made, and then I gave them directions on how to fold them into a flipbook.  When they were done, they each had their own booklet.  


Inside we talk about the importance of setting goals.  I asked them to name 3 life goals they had for themselves.

Then we reviewed their goals.

Next we talked about the importance of having a positive mindset and the affect it had on your goals.


Then I introduced a few business terms: SWOT or Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.  I explained how our SWOT could make or break our success.  In the business world, not recognizing your weaknesses and threats could overpower the opportunities and strengths, but if we know ahead of time what these hurdles are, we can make plans (using our positive mindsets) to prepare to get past them.  They become speed bumps instead of barricades.

Lastly, I asked students to write their own SMART goals.

At the end of class, students shared some of their SMART goals, and once again tied it in to high school transition.   I have one more day in class with the 8th graders and tomorrow we will talk about “How long is your lifetime.”


I’d love to know how you talk about goal setting with your middle schoolers.  What lessons do you do?  Leave a comment below, or email me if you would like to be a guest blogger and share your lesson with others!

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