Learn more about goal setting

Setting goals to become a firefighter

1. Identify the large-scale goal that you want to achieve or become - “big picture” Make this goal one that you genuinely want to achieve.

Big Goal: “My Life goal is to become a Firefighter”

2. Break this goal down into smaller and smaller targets that you must hit to reach your big goal. Create smaller daily, weekly, monthly targets that are achievable, then do them!

Small Goal: “I want to pass Fire Academy”
Smaller Goals: Increase lifting weight by 5% every 2 weeks, take fire science classes required for academy this year, complete high intensity interval training four times per week, save $____ amount of money to pay for tuition by the time Academy starts.

3. Once the plan is in place, time to execute. Do at least one thing every day to bring you closer to your goals. Small goals move you a bit closer to your big, ultimate goal, and they add up!

4. Use “Goal Markers” to stay on track and to gauge your progress.

“I want to pass the Biddle in 6 months” 
“I want to save $____ in the next 3 months”
”I want to take one fire science class this summer”

5. Re-evaluate. If you achieved your goals, set new ones. If you did not achieve a particular goal be honest with why and adjust goals accordingly.

“I did not put in enough time to reach this goal, I will work out three times per week instead of only two”
“I was not realistic with the amount of time needed for this goal, I am on the right track, but need another 6 months to get there.”

Goals setting is never ending. Successful firefighters set goals, not only to get the job, but throughout their careers to promote, improve, and stay safe.