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Goal-Setting Test

20 Questions
3 Minutes

Can you set goals effectively?

Setting goals is an important skill; it shapes the direction of our life, from careers and hobbies to relationships and personal growth. Some can easily establish and accomplish their objectives, while others struggle to do so. Take this test to see where you fall on the spectrum.

Using the key below, answer the questions based on how strongly you agree or disagree with the statement.

Disagree
Strongly Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
1. I have clear and specific goals for different areas of my life.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
2. My goals are meaningful to me.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
3. I finish whatever I begin.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
4. I set short-term goals for myself (like finishing a work project or exercising for an hour).
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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5. I set long-term goals for myself (like earning a degree or getting a new job).
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
6. I review and update my goals based on my progress.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
7. When setting a goal, I think about my past successes and failures.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
8. I can't seem to achieve what I want to.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
9. When I set goals, I think about barriers that might get in my way.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
10. I have overcome setbacks to accomplish important goals.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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11. I set goals that are challenging but achievable.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
12. When I set a goal, I am confident that I can accomplish it.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
13. Setbacks propel me forward; they don't stop me from achieving my goals.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
14. I plan ahead so that I can do well in my personal or professional life.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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15. I try to organize my ideas when I want to develop my goals.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
16. I feel anxious when I think about setting goals.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
17. When I want to accomplish something big, I make small steps to track my progress.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
18. I often set a goal but later choose to pursue a different one.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
19. I create plans with deadlines to track my progress toward goals.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
20. I prioritize my goals based on their importance.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree

Who Is This Test For?

This test is for anyone who wants to assess their goal-setting ability. It’s designed for adults and is not intended to be prescriptive.

We value your privacy - see how we protect the info you provide when you take this test.

How to Get Help

If you think you’d benefit from discussing your goals with a professional, finding a therapist or life coach may be beneficial. Search for one in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.

Sources

Dowson, M., et al. Goal Orientation and Learning Strategies Survey (Goals-S).

Duckworth, A., et al. Grit: Perseverance and Passion for Long-Term Goals.

Gaumer Erickson, A. S., et al. Goal Setting Questionnaire.

Ryan, R. M., et al. Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI).