Charting the Course | Week 2: Destination Defined: Goal Setting for Professional Growth
- Dr. Elizabeth 'Lisa' Rich
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
Introduction
Every successful journey has a destination in mind. Once you've clarified your values and priorities through self-reflection, the next step is setting intentional, meaningful goals. At Chart House Academy, we believe that defining your direction is essential to building momentum and maintaining clarity.
Why Goal Setting Matters
Without direction, even the most talented professionals drift. Goal setting provides structure, direction, and purpose, ensuring your actions are aligned with your aspirations. Goals help you prioritize time, track progress, and build confidence as you move forward.
Use SMART Goals to Navigate with Precision
The SMART framework is a proven method for creating goals that are achievable and measurable:
Specific – What exactly do you want to accomplish?
Measurable – How will you know you’re making progress?
Achievable – Is this goal realistic with the resources and time available?
Relevant – Does it align with your larger vision or role?
Time-bound – What’s the deadline or timeline?
Example: Instead of “I want to be a better presenter,” try: “I will complete a virtual public speaking course and present in our monthly team meeting within the next 60 days.”
Define Waypoints, Not Just Endpoints
Long-term goals can feel overwhelming. Break them into waypoints, smaller milestones that help you track progress and build momentum. These short-term goals serve as checkpoints along your journey.
For example:
Submit application materials by Friday
Complete Module 1 of training by next week
Request feedback after your next presentation
Align Goals with Your Professional Identity
When goals reflect who you are and what you value, they become more sustainable. Ask yourself:
Why does this goal matter to me?
What strengths will I use to achieve it?
How will this move me closer to the work I want to do?
Keep Your Goals Visible
Use visual cues, a digital dashboard, post-it notes, or a goal journal to keep your goals front and center. Visibility creates accountability. Revisit your goals weekly to assess progress, adapt your plan, and stay motivated.
Conclusion
Your destination defines your direction. Set your course with clarity, and let each goal act as a guiding star on your professional path. With thoughtful planning and consistent action, your progress becomes inevitable.
Ready to define your destination? Identify one SMART goal today and map out your first waypoint.
⚓️ This article is Part 2 of our 5-part Charting the Course series.
Next up: Learning to Navigate: Choosing the Right Learning Pathways.
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