Is it that time again? Resolution time? Well, this year let’s make some resolutions in our career that we will actually carry out! A couple of years ago, my boss introduced me to “S.M.A.R.T. Goals”. These are used by life coaches and consultants. S.M.A.R.T. stands for goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time Framed.
The following is a description from careerintelligence.com:
“Specific: Goals need to be something specific. Often we set goals that are so loose, it’s nearly impossible to judge whether we hit them or not. For example, a statement like “I will lose weight” is too vague. How will you know if and when you’ve reached your goal? Saying, ” I will lose five pounds this month” is more specific. At the end of the month it will be a simple matter of weights and measures: take your measurements and get on the scale.
Measurable: Goals need to be measurable. For example, many of us want to increase our number of contacts. But, “making new contacts” is an ambiguous statement. A clearer objective is “I will attend four networking events each month and try to connect with one person at each.” It’s a simple, concrete goal. This makes it easy to see if you hit your target.
Achievable: Goals need to be reasonable and achievable. Nearly everyone has tried to drop a few pounds at one time or another. Often their success or failure depends on setting practical goals. Losing 15 pounds in 30 days is unrealistic (unless you’re planning a medical procedure). Losing six to eight pounds in 30 days is reasonable. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting goals that are out of reach.
Realistic: Goals need to be realistic. When we’re kids we think we can do anything. As adults we learn that while we can have a lot, we can’t have it all at the same time. It’s important to honestly evaluate yourself. Do you have the ability and commitment to make your dream come true? Or does it need a little adjustment? For example, you may love to play tennis, but do you have the time, talent and commitment to become a pro? Be honest.
Time Framed: Goals need to have a time frame. Having a set amount of time will give your goals structure. For example, many of us want to find a new job or start their own business. Some people spend a lot of time talking about what they want to do, someday. But, without an end date there is no sense of urgency, no reason to take any action today. Having a specific time frame gives you the impetus to get started. It also helps you monitor your progress.”
Now that we have a frame of reference on HOW to set goals. Here are a few ideas on WHAT some goals may be focused around.
High5 : New Years Resolutions for a Professional Nanny
5. Educate yourself on Milestones or Age Appropriate Goals
Do some research on the Miletsones and/or age appropriate goals for the kids in your care. Make some goals on paper and share them with your bosses. Decide on the priorities then work as a team to achieve them.
4. Set Goals for yourself in your Career
There also may be some mountains that you personally want to achieve at your job. This maybe earning a raise, this may be adding some new dynamics or experiences into your day with your kids. This could simply be things that you want to challenge yourself to experience with your kids. For example with the triplets I would like to conquer library story times, potty training, behavior in restaurants, and summer days at the pool. Once the “idea” is seen as a goal, you can challenge yourself, by taking a step at time, to accomplish in by the end of the year (or whatever time frame is needed).
3. Join a National Affiliation
I cannot express enough the value that affiliation has brought to me personally and to my career as a Professional Nanny. It has allowed me to be apart of the industry as a whole. It has allowed me to meet Nannies all across the US that have set a professional standard. I also know that this is a wonderful addition to my resume. For more information on INA click here and for NANC click here.
2. Get involved locally
Coming soon to cincynanny.com will be this quarter’s Nannies Night Out/Open Play Date Schedule. Make it a point to gather with others in your industry. We have had some great events so far and lots of nannies. Compared to other Nanny support groups, CincyNanny is young. It it still developing it’s personality. Join us. Become a part. You can even help plan events!
1. Plan to Attend Training
In my opinion the difference between a Nanny and a Professional Nanny is that a Professional Nanny is putting themselves in a place to be challenged. This could be in reading books, getting trained in CPR/First AId and attending educational conferences. So I challenge you to attend training this year. We all have room to grow. There is everything from local free training to national conferences. Set a goal and accomplish it. It may look like this: I will attend two local 1-day trainings and the INA Conference in San Francisco – May 2010 info here.
It is proven that when you write down your goals, they are more likely to be completed. I challenge you to sit down with a piece of paper and create some S.M.A.R.T. goals for 2010. I would love to hear them!
