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KristinRegina Jaquess has a pretty good handle on effective goal setting. A year ago, she entered the 2011 season with a very specific goal in mind — she intended to break her world-record slalom run of 1 ½ at 41 off. Her plan, however, was more complex than that. Jaquess learned throughout her career that every major goal requires a series of micro-goals that must be met in order to stay on task. Some of her goals will be performance-based — running a specific score, for example — while others will be more technical in nature. So as the season progressed, Jaquess revisited her goals weekly, ensuring that her path was unwavering. By summer’s end, Jaquess broke her world-record with a score of 2 buoys at 41 off. Next season, follow Jaquess’ prescription for success by setting your goals early and revisiting them often.
Start Early
“I like to set my goals for the upcoming season a few months after the previous season has ended. I need some time to reflect upon my successes and failures from the previous season. After some time off, I’m better able to formulate my plan for the season at hand.”
Build a Base
“For every goal I set, I plan several micro-goals to help me stay on task. For example, if my goal is to run 2 at 41 off, I may set a smaller goal of running 39 ½ off 10 times a week in practice. Or, I might focus on some small technical aspect of my style, like remaining level through the finish of my turn. Every goal I set has a solid base of micro-goals to help support it.”
Don’t Limit Yourself
“I am careful not to only set performance-based goals [pertaining to a specific score]. Sometimes my goal is to increase my consistency in slalom. In order to achieve this, I will have to set goals that focus on technique. In tricks, for example, my goals often center on working a new trick into my run. In this case, my goal would be to make my other tricks cleaner or faster. In jump, I am often focused on a new technique that will allow me to progress in a safer manner. Goals do not always have to come in the form of a specific score by a specific date. Improvement should be the only stipulation when it comes to goal-setting.”
Revisit and Readjust
“It is important to revisit your goals often. I suggest taking a weekly evaluation of where you stand in regards to both your major and micro goals. By midsummer, it may be necessary to adjust your goals. Remember, there is no shame in slightly lowering a goal. It is important to succeed in attaining your goal, so if it turns out to be too high, lower it slightly. Conversely, if you have achieved your goals sooner than expected, you may have to set your sights a little higher.”
Plan for the Future
“Goals are never isolated. Your goals this season are a mere stepping stone to next summer’s goals. When setting your goals, keep in mind that the process will be ongoing for as long as you ski.”
