All NDIS plans revolve around goals. That’s why setting the right goals, at the outset, is critical to receiving the right supports and thriving on your NDIS plan.

Setting the wrong goals can result in a plan that doesn’t support you in the ways it needs to. But how do you set goals that make sense for you?

Let’s take a look at some of the best ways.

Make relevant goals for you

When goal setting, it’s best to start first with the things that are most important to you. Perhaps you’d like more independence, more community engagement, or better balance and movement.

Start with these things –– the ones that are most relevant to you (or your participant) and write them down. As you do, make sure that they are realistic and achievable.

Having the goal, for example, to begin meaningful employment can be great, but it might be too ambitious depending on your circumstances. Consider what’s reasonable in the near future, and what might be possible with the right supports.

On the other hand, make sure the goals push you too so that you’re always improving and benefiting from your plan.

Focus on goals, not supports

While it might be tempting to consider what supports you most need, it’s best to start with your goals, not supports first.

Supports are there to help you towards your goals, not the other way around. Once your goals are set, it will become obvious which supports you’ll need and when.

If you want to engage with your local community more, for example, having transport to take you to and from those social activities, may be needed, as well as supports for engaging in those activities.

Include things you enjoy

It helps to set goals that you personally are excited to achieve –– that way you’ll be more likely to stay committed and you’ll have a greater chance of enjoying your plan.

As you set goals, consider things that you enjoy, or are really passionate about.

Learning to drive, for example, is a goal that while challenging, can be a lot of fun and grant access to greater freedom. This might be something you’d like to have in your plan.

Ideally, you want your goals to create more joy and freedom in your life.

Some large, some small

While it might be tempting to fill your plan with large goals, doing so could lead to overwhelm.

Successful plans tend to include a range of different goals that can be achieved throughout the duration –– some smaller short-term goals, and others that’ll take a longer time.

That way you’ll have the satisfaction of gradually working through different-sized goals and you’ll see real progress at every stage of the plan.

Need help with goal setting?

Your support coordinator is your best port of call to assist with goal setting. They can help you get the most out of your plan. They’re also there to help you access supports that will help you achieve your goals. LACs can support you with this too.

We’re here to help. Have a question or query? Get in touch on 1300 60 33 89 or at [email protected]

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