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Step 2: Set Goals

Once you have narrowed your focus on one key human rights concern for youth in your context, you will need to identify what you want to achieve.

Set clear aims and objectives

To do so, think about the following:

  • What is your primary aim or goal? Try to be as short and specific as possible.
  • If relevant, break down your overall goal into a few clear objectives. For example, what are three key things that need to be achieved in order for your goal to be met?
  • What is the impact you want to see, and by when? What would you like to see in the short-, medium- and long- term, and what time frame is necessary; how many weeks, months, years?
  • Are your objectives realistic and achievable within the time you have and in the context where you will be advocating?
  • How can you measure progress towards your goal and/or objectives?

An easy way to remember the above points is to check that your aims and objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound (or SMART in English).

Think about your key limitations and constraints. Is there anything you can do to address them?
If not, then recognize them and factor them into your planning.

Step 3: Plan

When you have identified your aims and objectives, think about the different ways in which you can achieve them.