Goal setting in small steps

Moving from one’s current state to a new preferred, or envisioned, state of greater well-being requires setting goals. A goal-setting process converts a desired outcome into a stepwise action plan of small, incremental, progressive goals moving in the direction of the hoped-for outcome. Goal setting relies heavily on executive functioning, often impaired in individuals with ADHD. However, coaches and therapists can assist clients with ADHD in learning to effectively create and pursue goals. To do so, practitioners meet clients “where they are at” and assist them in the nuts and bolts of breaking goals down into small incremental steps, aligned with their stage of change. Practitioners then help clients balance intentions with reality and set up systems of support, structures, and accountability. As clients begin to make stepwise progress, building in acknowledgment of success can foster self-confidence and self-efficacy. This can, in turn, support greater willingness to take action steps; an eventual internalization of the goal-setting process; more and varied experiences of success; and, ultimately, a broadened sense of self aligned with movement toward a self-determined life well-lived.