As a new year begins, many start off with plans, goals, and routines to set themselves up for success. The mentoring experience is no different. What better way to start off a new year than setting creative and fresh goals with your student. In this blog, we will share five reasons why setting goals with your student helps the mentoring relationship thrive.
1. Create Clarity and Momentum for the Year
Setting goals in a mentoring relationship creates clarity and momentum for the year. If specific goals are discussed and set, then there is no gray area for the mentor and mentee. For example, if a student has difficulty finishing a game during the mentoring hour, a simple goal might be to start and finish three games each month. This is a clear goal that leaves no room for confusion.
Clarity also helps set the momentum for the student to accomplish their goal, which you can celebrate together! The beginning of the year is a great time to start this objective.
2. Track Measurable Progress
The mentoring relationship flourishes when goals are set and measured. When creating new goals, be sure that they are easily measurable. Setting a goal to start and finish three games each month is something the student can measure and see progress. When a student is able to measure their success, it creates a sense of empowerment. Bonus points if you have a physical reminder of these goals that the student is able to cross off when completed!
3. Provide Accountability and Support
Setting new goals allows for greater accountability and support. If the student and mentor set these goals together, then each week they can reflect on the goals and hold each other accountable. If the student is off track, the mentor is able to gently remind and encourage the student. It helps strengthen the mentoring bond!
4. Plan for Long-Term Success
While these goals might appear to be short term (i.e. reading one book each month, completing at least four assignments from the teacher before summer break, sharing one thankful thought each week, etc.), they may develop into long-term positive habits. If a student does not enjoy reading, a one book per month goal could blossom into a long-term habit that the student looks forward to. Don’t be afraid to set small goals with the hope that they grow into something more meaningful down the road.
5. Celebrate the Milestones Together
The very best part about goal setting is celebrating the accomplished goal! At the beginning of the year, as you set your goals, feel free to create a reward for the goals that have been set. If a student is able to complete four assignments or more from the teacher, perhaps offer the reward of a favorite candy bar or have the student choose the next activity. If a student is able to start and finish three games each month, then at the end of the school year, maybe the reward is a new coloring book or a fun activity to do together. The point is that you set the goals with your student and, together, decide what the celebration will look like once these goals are completed! Keep in mind that communicating with your program director or your student’s teacher can be extremely helpful in determining achievable goals for your student!
It is never too late to set fresh expectations – and you can make it fun for your student! Log in to the Kids Hope USA portal to look at the mentoring hour handout and additional resources to help you be the best mentor that you can be. Feel free to contact us with any goal-setting stories or examples that you have!