Goal Setting for Athletes: A September Reset

Have you ever wondered why you or your athlete struggles with accomplishing their goals? If so, you're not alone. Many athletes face this challenge, and it's often due to a lack of effective goal-setting and planning. But fear not! With September right around the corner, it's the perfect time for a fresh start, even if it's not January. In this blog post, we'll explore why September is an ideal time for student-athletes and their parents to reflect, set goals, and create a plan for success.

The September Advantage

As the summer season comes to a close, it's common for our minds to shift from vacation mode back to a more focused, goal-oriented state. For student-athletes, September marks the beginning of the school year, the start of many sports seasons, and a tangible sense of change in the air. With all these elements aligning, there's no better time to think about how you want this season to unfold.

So, here's your reminder to do a little homework and start planning out your season or year. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even suggest this exercise to your team – teamwork makes the dream work, right?

Setting SMART Goals

Now that you're motivated to get started, let's dive into setting actionable and achievable SMART goals. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Define Your Big Picture Goal

Begin by thinking about what you want to accomplish in the long run. This is your big picture goal. Then, break it down into shorter-term goals that align with this season. Ask yourself: What can you improve upon this season that will bring you closer to your big goal?

Step 2: Make Your Goals SMART

Ensure your goals meet the SMART criteria. For example, if you're a hockey player, a good goal might be "I want to improve my shot." However, a better SMART goal would be: "I want to improve the accuracy of my wrist shot within the next three months." This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and has a defined time frame.

Step 3: Create an Action Plan

This is where many athletes fall short. Setting a goal is just the first step; you must also create a daily or weekly action plan to work toward achieving it. Remember, a goal without a plan is merely a wish. Break down your big picture goal into smaller, manageable steps, and commit to taking action consistently.

By following these steps and setting SMART goals, you'll set yourself up for success in the upcoming season. Whether you're an athlete or a supportive parent, remember that goal setting is a powerful tool that can lead to remarkable achievements.

So, what's one goal you're setting for yourself this year? Share it in the comments below or send me a direct message. If you're a parent, let me know how you're supporting your athlete in their goal-setting journey this season. And if you need any help along the way, don't hesitate to reach out.

It's time to seize the opportunity that September brings and make this season one of growth, achievement, and success.

- Coach Danielle