ARROW Model for Goal-Setting
Step by Step Process
HI Reader,
Let’s dive into the ARROW model of goal-setting. The reason I want to share this with you is because the model is simple, effective, and provides clear steps to help us achieve and maintain our goals.
AIM - WHAT IS YOUR GOAL?
In this first step, you merely need to know your goal. It doesn’t matter if it is a narrow or broad objective, we will get into the details as we go through the process.
Why - knowing our goal gives us direction.
REASON(S) - WHY IS THIS OBJECTIVE IMPORTANT TO YOU? MOTIVATIONS.
Now, I want you to ask yourself, why are you doing this goal? Explore all of the possible reasons and collect as many different motivations as you can!
Why - so that when the setbacks happen and the challenge seems insurmountable, you can dig into your reservoirs, ignite that fire, and keep on going.
REALITY - WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT SITUATION?
In this step, I want you to honestly describe where you are right now in relation to your goal. Be extensive. Don’t shirk. Bring to light all the various factors that may influence your goal; such as your past attempts, your discipline, other people who can affect the outcome, your environment, your resources, your ideas about it now, ect.
Why - we need a comprehensive starting point to know how to accurately target our goal and track our progress.
OPTIONS - WHAT ARE YOUR POSSIBLE ACTIONS? LIST ALL POTENTIALS!
Explore all of the different options that are in front of you. Nothing is too far-fetched. This stage is about imagining the impossible through to the very possible. If you need to bring in another person / opinion to help you brainstorm ideas to achieve your goal, then go for it, this is the time.
Why - we often limit the possible routes to our goals because we have ingrained habits & routines. Therefore, if we can think outside the box and shape a variety of possibilities, it allows us to select the best option, as well as establishing a bank of other options if the need arises to test them out.
WAY FORWARD - SELECT THE BEST OPTION AND DEFINE IT. HOW.
Finally, select your preferred option and be as clear as possible on how you are going to test out this route. What are you going to measure? How are you going to know if you have succeeded? What are the specific actions you need to do? Who is going to help you be accountable? When are you going to reassess and review to adjust your plan as required? What is your first task? By what date do you want to complete X task by? Who? Where? When? HOW?
Why - a detailed plan allows us to track our progress and take the goal from idea into action!
A simple five step process that helps you target your goal.
Happy Doings :)
Helping Postgraduate Students and Young Professionals Improve