Learning Journal Unit 7
Learning Journal Unit 7
I remember setting a goal to become fluent in Spanish within three months. I started out really
excited, dedicating time to learn vocabulary and practice grammar. But life got busy, and I found
myself skipping study sessions more and more often. I didn’t practice speaking with anyone, which
was crucial, and eventually, I just gave up. Looking back, I realize I wasn’t successful because I had
set an unrealistic goal without a solid plan. I underestimated the time and effort it would take and
didn’t stay consistent.
On the other hand, there was a time I set a goal to complete my degree in telecommunications
engineering within three years. This goal required a lot of dedication, but I approached it differently.
I broke my coursework into small, manageable tasks and made sure to keep track of my progress. I
also balanced my studies with other aspects of life to avoid burnout. Having a clear plan and sticking
to it helped me stay focused, and I was able to graduate on time. The key difference was that I was
realistic, had a structured plan, and remained disciplined.
Setting goals helps bring clarity and purpose. When we know exactly what we’re aiming for, it’s
easier to stay motivated and push through challenges. Effective goals are SMART they’re Specific
(clearly defined), Measurable (you can track progress),
Achievable (realistic), Relevant (aligned with what you truly want), and Time-bound (have a
deadline). Goals like this keep us accountable and give us a roadmap to follow, so we’re less likely to
drift or give up.
My Three Goals:
1. Short-term goal: This week, I’ll finish two chapters of my computer science textbook so I can keep
up with my class and not feel overwhelmed later.
2. Mid-term goal: By the end of the semester, I want to earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher. To do this, I’ll
manage my study time better and consistently attend study groups.
3. Long-term goal: In the next two years, I aim to graduate with my Bachelor’s degree in Information
Technology and secure a job in IT support, which will help me start my career.
These goals are all steps toward my bigger dreams, and by setting them thoughtfully, I’m giving
myself the best chance to succeed.