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Setting goals might sound simple, but when you’re balancing parenting, work, study or everyday life, it can feel anything but easy.

Between caring for others and keeping up with daily demands, it’s hard to find the time and energy to focus on your own goals. But goals can work as a great reminder that your future still holds space for growth and possibility.

At Parent Pathways, we’ve supported many parents through big transitions — from going back into study to launching new careers — and we’ve seen first-hand how clear, realistic goals can make all the difference. Here’s how to set goals that work for you, and how to keep going when things get tough.

The benefits of goal setting

Goals give you direction. They help you move from “I’d like to do that one day” to “Here’s how I’ll start.”

When you have competing priorities, like parenting and work, having a plan gives you structure and purpose. It also builds confidence, because you can see your progress instead of just thinking about what’s left to do. Each small win gives your brain a boost of reward and momentum, keeping you focused even when life throws distractions your way.

There’s been a lot of research into the psychology behind goal setting, and why it’s important for progress and motivation. Here are some benefits of setting goals:

• It’s easier to focus and persist when you have a clear goal
• You enjoy what you’re doing more when you’re working towards something
• Improved independence and self-determination
• Improved confidence and self-image

The hardest part is to get started. Progress becomes easier step by step, with practice.

Start with your why

Before you decide what to do, think about why you want to do it.

Maybe you want to study again so you can find a more secure job. Maybe you’ve always loved helping others and want to make that your career. Or maybe you’re looking for something that’s just for you: a new skill, hobby, or routine maybe.

When your goals are connected to something meaningful, it’s easier to stay focused. Write your “why” down somewhere you’ll see it often, a note on your phone or a sticky note on your fridge. It will remind you what you’re working towards and why it matters.

Break big goals into smaller steps

Large goals will quickly become overwhelming. The key is to break them down into smaller, manageable steps.

The SMART framework is commonly used for goal setting. It’s about making goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. In other words, that means being clear about what you want, how you’ll measure progress, and when you’ll check in.

For example, instead of setting a goal of “I want a new career”, frame it as “I’ll enrol in a Certificate III course this term and complete one module each month.”

Each step should feel achievable. Small wins build momentum, and before you know it, you’ll be looking back at how far you’ve come.

Be realistic and patient with yourself

Sometimes the biggest barrier isn’t the goal itself but the pressure we put on ourselves. Life happens: kids get sick, plans change, your energy dips. Being realistic means giving yourself room to adapt.

If your goal is to study, maybe that looks like taking one subject this term instead of three. If you’re returning to work, maybe you start part-time while you find your rhythm again. 

Consistency matters more than perfection. Slow progress is still progress, and takes you once step closer to reaching your goal. 

Write your goals down on paper

Your goals shouldn’t only live in your head. Writing them down makes them real, something you can return to and reflect on. A Parent Pathways mentor can help you with this process. 

Try keeping a notebook, notes app, or even a visual tracker somewhere you can see it. Check in weekly or monthly to see what’s working and what’s not, and celebrate your small wins. 

Seeing progress visualised helps keep your motivation strong. 

Build support around you 

Goals are easier to achieve when you’re not doing them alone. Sharing your goals with a family member, friend, or Parent Pathways mentor can help you stay accountable and supported. 

We’ve seen people make huge progress on their goals once they have the right guidance. A Parent Pathways mentor can help you identify barriers, find training opportunities, or even access funding for things like equipment, transport or uniforms.

Check in and celebrate the small wins

You don’t have to wait for the finish line to celebrate. Every step deserves recognition.

Finishing your first class, submitting an application, or deciding on a goal as the first step all matter. Recognising small victories helps you stay positive and reminds you why you started in the first place.

Part of goal setting is also regularly checking in to review and adjust your goals accordingly. Things change, and that’s okay. If you start working toward something, like a job or course, and realise it’s not as fulfilling or motivating as you hoped, that’s completely okay. Changing course isn’t a failure, but a sign of self-awareness. It’s also the perfect time to reach out for support and explore what might suit you better.

Need help setting and achieving your goals? 

If you’re a parent looking to return to work, study, or get support in other areas of your life, Parent Pathways might be able to help. 

For parents, goals might mean starting a degree, building a business, upskilling, completing your drivers license, or simply researching options for what’s next. Whatever the goal, Parent Pathways can help make it achievable with personalised support, and mentors who listen and guide you throughout the process.

If you need support in figuring out your next step, you can read more about eligibility and how Parent Pathways can help from our website.