As students settle into the routine of a new school year, teaching students to take ownership of their education is a priority. Setting and achieving goals is one way students can find direction, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment. How do parents teach goal-setting skills to students? One way is incorporating principles from The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Sean Covey. This program is being piloted at the Vista campus for students in grades 1-8 and teaches the habits of success. These habits encourage students to be responsible and proactive and help them understand how to break down their dreams into actionable steps. Here are some takeaways that can be adopted and incorporated into your goal-setting.
Begin with the End in Mind
The 7 Habits of Happy Kids teaches students to "begin with the end in mind." This principle emphasizes the importance of having a vision for the future. Whether mastering a new subject, becoming a better teammate, or graduating high school, students should set clear, meaningful goals that give them a sense of purpose. With a long-term goal, they can make intentional decisions and prioritize the steps necessary to reach that end. Encouraging students to think about what they want to accomplish empowers them to visualize their success and create a roadmap. By setting goals early, students learn the value of planning and gain confidence in their ability to achieve more.
Put First Things First
The third habit, “Put first things first,” reminds students that not all tasks are created equal. Goal-setting involves the ability to prioritize what matters most. A student’s life is busy with extracurricular activities, homework, and personal interests, all demanding time. Teaching students to prioritize helps them focus on moving closer to their goals. Students can learn to ask themselves questions like, "What can I do today that will bring me closer to my goal?" and "What is the most important task right now?" By developing this mindset early, they become more productive and are better equipped to manage their time effectively. Setting goals also requires students to be proactive. Whether studying more or seeking growth opportunities, a proactive mindset helps students stay focused on what is in their control.
Celebrate Success
Finally, students must celebrate their achievements along the way. Goal-setting isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s about the journey. Each small step toward a larger goal is a reason to celebrate. Acknowledging these victories builds self-esteem and motivates students to continue striving for success. Reflecting on progress and creating rewards develops a positive behavior loop that can be built on in the future.
Cultivating Lifelong Learners
By incorporating these habits into their daily routines, students learn that setting and achieving goals is about academic success and personal growth. As lifelong learners, they will apply these goal-setting principles beyond the classroom and into their careers, relationships, and personal development.
Teaching students the value of setting goals is about more than just academic achievement; it’s about cultivating strong, resilient individuals who can navigate life’s challenges confidently and setting them up for success in and out of the classroom.
The Classical Academies is an organization of award-winning, tuition-free, public charter schools serving 5200+ students in grades TK-12 in North San Diego County.
