New year is a time for resolutions, planning and deciding what it is you really want to achieve in your paddling next.  One of the best and proven methods of achieving this is to set goals and targets.  Many people are confused by goal setting – some people set SMART objectives, others decide on outcomes, while others set ‘Ego’ or ‘Task’ based achievement goals.
One easy way to do it is to set ‘Outcome’ and ‘Process’ goals.  An ‘Outcome’ is the achievement of a particular target such as running a new rapid, or learning to roll.  A ‘Process’ is what you need to achieve to reach your target, such as learning to cross into and out of the flow or how to capsize with confidence.
For example, I’m currently developing my canoe and kayak training courses and these distinct goals might be-

Outcome Goals - for the participants to become even better and able to skillfully utilise the latest modern and proven techniques in an appropriate environment, meeting the criteria (where set) by the BCU and the agreed wants and needs of each individual.  They will develop with confidence and a positive attitude.

Process Goals- I will identify and agree the individual needs of each person, provide a supportive learning environment, improve the performance of each person as they experience success, and help identify future learning needs.  This will be achieved through demonstration, guided discovery, multi sensory development, self awareness, attitude, experience and honest feedback.

So you can see that I have at least two distinct goal sets.  These are Outcome and Process.  An Outcome Goal is what my students will achieve.  A Process Goal is the manner in which they experience the training in order to achieve the Outcome Goal.

So as you plan your learning for this year, I invite you to consider what you want to achieve, and how you want to achieve it.

For details of canoe and kayak training, BCU courses and canoe coaching or kayak coaching contact Kim Bull.  Courses run throughout the North East, Cumbria and the borders of Scotland.

Email – kim@kimbull.co.uk