Well, it’s that time of year again. The Fall semester has begun here at Rocky Top, and I am so excited!
I love taking time as the hustle of summer comes to a close to reflect on the Spring and Summer months and set fresh goals for the Fall and Winter months. As a graduate student and researcher, it can be easy for me to define success solely by using academic measures like papers or grades. However, I think it’s important to make time and track success in other areas. This provides perspective when challenges come up in my research, and it ensures that I make time for the things that fill my cup and encourage me.
Looking at my goals, some things are pre-decided, or booked in my calendar, and some goals are more abstract. For example, this fall and winter, I am completing my Master of Public Health degree, writing my master’s thesis, becoming a certified health education specialist, and attending many of my friends’ celebrations, including awards, talks, and even weddings! However, I am also working on my watercolor skills, posting once a week on this website, playing golf once a month, and trying to get back into hiking the beautiful Appalachian mountains.
Setting goals like this helps me focus and make noticeable changes to my daily life. This method also allows me to change goals as the seasons change – which can be helpful for certain weather-dependent activities (such as outdoor exploring).
This goal-setting style is not for everyone. Would you implement it in your academic or professional journey? Feel free to comment your thoughts!
