Over the past two blog posts, we explored how to assess where you currently stand in both your professional and personal life. Now that you have a clearer picture of what’s working and what’s not, it’s time to choose one goal for each area—one personal and one professional.
Why just one? Because focusing on one goal at a time leads to real progress without the overwhelm. Instead of spreading your energy too thin, you’ll be able to take intentional action and see meaningful results.
If you’re ready to make changes that will positively impact your life, let’s dive into the process of selecting goals that align with your values, are realistic, and bring you closer to the life you want.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Assessments
Start by revisiting the self-reflections from the previous blog posts. Ask yourself:
What stood out as the biggest challenge or frustration in my professional life?
What felt like the most pressing need in my personal life?
If I could change one thing in each area that would make the biggest impact, what would it be?
Example: Maybe you realized that you feel stuck in your career, undervalued at work, or need to sharpen your skills. Maybe in your personal life, you’ve been feeling disconnected from loved ones or struggling with self-care.
Identifying the areas that need attention is the first step to choosing a goal that will actually make a difference.
Step 2: Define Your Goals Clearly
As we know in our profession, not all goals are created equal. A vague goal like “I want to be healthier” or “I want to be more successful” lacks direction. Instead, your goal should be:
Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.
Meaningful: Choose something that genuinely excites or inspires you
Achievable: Set a goal that stretches you but isn’t overwhelming.
Example:
Instead of “Get a promotion,” try “Improve my leadership skills by taking an online course.”
Instead of “Be more social,” try “Schedule one coffee meet-up per month with a friend.”Framing your goals this way makes them more actionable and attainable.
Step 3: Test for Alignment
Before you commit, ask yourself:
Does this goal align with my values and priorities?
Will achieving it contribute to the life I want to create?
Will this goal improve my daily life?
How will it positively impact my happiness, energy, or fulfillment?
Is this goal realistic given my current responsibilities?
Do I have the time and energy to commit to it?
If your goal passes this alignment test, it’s a strong candidate to focus on. If not, tweak it until it feels right for your current situation. Don’t feel pressured to pick the perfect goal. Your goals are not set in stone. As you progress, you may realize that your priorities shift—and that’s okay! The important part is starting with intention and staying open to adjustments along the way.
REMINDER! Choosing one personal and one professional goal isn’t about adding more to your plate. IT IS about focusing on what will make the biggest impact in your life. So take a deep breath, trust the process, and take the first step toward your next chapter.
I personally love to see samples as I form my ideas and projects to get the ideas flowing! Below are two lists. 1) A brainstorming of samples for your professional goal. 2) A brainstorming of samples for your personal goal. Neither of these is an exhaustive list. Maybe there is one there that is perfect for you. Maybe not. They are there to get you thinking!
See you next week when we will discuss creating a Simple Action Plan!
| PROFESSIONAL GOAL IDEAS 1. Clinical Expertise & Continuing Education Obtain a new certification or specialization Earn ASHA Board Certification in a specialty area Stay updated on new research and evidence-based practices Improve skills in teletherapy or remote service delivery Develop expertise in a new population (early intervention, autism, dysphagia, bilingual therapy) 2. Career Advancement & Professional Growth Move into a leadership role (lead SLP, department head, clinical supervisor) Expand into private practice or start an SLP-related business Transition to a new setting (schools → hospitals, or clinical work → academia) Become a mentor or clinical supervisor for CFs or graduate students Increase involvement in SLP advocacy and policy-making 3. Productivity & Work-Life Balance Improve caseload management and time efficiency Reduce documentation time and streamline reporting processes Set healthy boundaries with work (avoid burnout, manage workload better) Implement self-care strategies to maintain long-term career satisfaction 4. Research & EducationPublish an article or research study in a professional journal Present at a conference or workshop (ASHA, state-level conventions) Develop and offer continuing education courses for other SLPs Create educational materials (e.g., worksheets, therapy programs, books) 5. Expanding Service Offerings Improve AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) knowledge and implementation Develop a parent or caregiver training program to enhance home-based therapy Implement group therapy models for efficiency and engagement Offer bilingual or culturally responsive therapy 6. Financial & Business Goals Increase income by offering private sessions or consulting Develop an additional revenue stream (online courses, books, speaking engagements) Improve billing and reimbursement skills for insurance/private pay clients 7. Technology & Innovation Learn to use AI and ChatGPT for documentation, therapy planning, or patient education Integrate apps and digital tools into therapy for better engagement Explore telepractice innovations to enhance virtual therapy sessions PERSONAL GOAL IDEAS 1. Self-Care & Work-Life Balance Set clear work boundaries to prevent burnout (no emails after work hours) Establish a stress management routine (meditation, yoga, therapy) Schedule regular time off for vacations or mental health breaks Develop a consistent sleep schedule to improve energy and focus 2. Health & Well-Being Incorporate exercise into a weekly routine (strength training, walking, Peloton) Improve nutrition and mindful eating habits Increase hydration throughout the day (especially for voice health!) Engage in preventative healthcare (regular check-ups, vocal hygiene) 3. Relationships & Social Life Reconnect with friends and family (schedule regular get-togethers) Strengthen professional friendships to create a support network Prioritize quality time with a partner or children Make time for new social experiences outside of work 4. Hobbies & Personal Growth Read non-SLP-related books for enjoyment Start a creative hobby (painting, music, pottery, writing, photography) Learn a new skill (e.g., a language, cooking, gardening) Take a class for personal enrichment (dance, art, mindfulness) 5. Financial & Lifestyle Goals Pay off student loans or other debtStart or grow savings and investments Create a realistic budget to align spending with personal values Declutter and simplify home life (minimalism, organization) 6. Mindset & Personal Fulfillment Build self-confidence and reduce imposter syndrome Develop a positive morning and evening routine Practice mindfulness and gratitude journaling Explore manifesting or spiritual practices |