Having a disability doesn't mean surrendering to limitations. It's about embracing the power of possibility, crafting goals that inspire, and then collaboratively charging towards them with a warrior's spirit. This isn't just a guide to goal setting; it's a declaration of empowerment for every person who dares to dream beyond the boundaries.

Equipped with the SMART framework for crafting bulletproof goals and strategies to conquer common challenges, we have a wealth of experience in the disability industry to share. So, whether the goal is to summit the Everest of your dreams, launch a career that defies expectations, or simply navigate everyday life with newfound confidence, then read on.

What are NDIS goals?

NDIS goals, in the context of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia, are personalised statements about what participants want to achieve with the help of their NDIS funding. They're essentially the "why" behind the "what" in your NDIS plan, focusing on the desired outcomes rather than specific support types.

Purpose of NDIS goals

• Guide your plan: goals help tailor NDIS plans to each individuals unique needs and aspirations. They inform the types of supports and services a participant receives, ensuring they're aligned with what they and their family want to achieve.
• Motivation and direction: clear goals provide a sense of purpose and direction, driving progress and motivating a team to work towards achieving them.
• Measuring success: having goals allows support networks to track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of NDIS funding. It can also play an important role in future plan reviews.

Characteristics of NDIS goals

• Personal: they should reflect individual aspirations, priorities, and values.
• Outcome-focused: focus on what the family and the participant wants to achieve, not the specific supports you need.
• Measurable: define how progress is monitored and that the participant is achieving their goals.
• Time-bound: sets deadlines for achieving goals, considering their complexity and scope.
• Realistic: they are ambitious but achievable within the timeframe and resources available.

Examples of NDIS

• “Parents would like participant to improve their ability to recognise when they need to attend to self-care.”
• “Parents would like participant to regulate their emotions in challenging situations.”
• “Participant would like to build their confidence in connecting with people and developing friendships.”

The problem with NDIS goals

Goals that are developed at the time of your NDIS plan review are very broad. They generally will describe a high-level need, and won’t provide much context as to how it will be achieved or by when. This is where it can be truly invaluable to have an experienced service provider working with you to plan your support services. 

At Ascend Health, we train all of our staff on how to transform NDIS goals into actionable goals that can be monitored, ensuring that participants get the most out of their current and future NDIS plans. Before we describe the most effective strategy for creating goals, here’s a few more reasons why goal setting can be so valuable.

Benefits of Disability Goal Setting: Unleashing Your Potential

Living with a disability doesn't have to mean living by circumstance. Goal setting, the powerful practice of charting an individual path, can be a transformative tool for people with disabilities. Far beyond mere checkbox-ticking, disability goal setting holds the key to unlocking a universe of benefits, empowering you and your family to not only navigate daily life, but truly thrive.

Independence and Self-Confidence

Imagine the exhilaration of mastering a new skill, the pride of completing a challenging task, or the joy of achieving a personal milestone – all with determination and effort. Disability goal setting fuels these experiences, granting a sense of autonomy and accomplishment that translates into a radiant self-confidence. Each conquered barrier, each achieved dream, whispers an undeniable truth: we are all capable, resourceful, and in control of our own destiny.

Beyond the obvious wins, disability goal setting fosters independence in the everyday. Setting goals for managing limitations, mastering daily tasks, or overcoming communication hurdles empowers people to take charge of their own well-being, reducing reliance on others and fostering a sense of self-sufficiency. This newfound confidence can strengthen relationships, and embolden you to advocate for you or your families needs and desires.

Enhanced Quality of Life and Mental Well-being

The pursuit of meaningful goals injects a dose of purpose and excitement into life, creating a buffer against negativity and isolation. Every step towards an aspiration, no matter how small, ignites a spark of hope and motivation, combating feelings of stagnation and boosting overall well-being.

Imagine the shift from merely coping with a disability to actively crafting a life rich in experiences and achievements. Goal setting empowers people to prioritise self-care, pursue hobbies and passions, and build fulfilling relationships. By actively shaping our futures, we can cultivate a sense of agency and control, reducing stress and anxiety, and fostering a positive outlook on life.

Motivation and Focus

Feeling lost or adrift in a sea of "what ifs" and "maybes" is a common struggle for many individuals with disabilities. Goal setting acts as a compass, providing a clear direction and unwavering focus to your energy. With well-defined goals in place, people find a hidden wellspring of motivation within.

Achievement of Personal and Professional Aspirations

Disability becomes a barrier only when we allow it to define limits. Goal setting empowers people to smash through these perceived limitations and propel themselves forwards. Whether it's conquering the academic ladder, building a fulfilling career, or launching a new venture, goals pave the way for professional success regardless of external obstacles.

Stronger Sense of Purpose and Direction

Life can feel adrift when your path is shrouded in uncertainty. Disability goal setting provides a beacon, a guiding light that illuminates a unique purpose and steers towards a more fulfilling life. When faced with challenges, goals serve as a North Star, the sense of direction fosters a positive outlook, propelling people forward even when the path seems daunting.

Exploring the Diverse Landscape of Disability Goals

Just as there is no single story of disability, there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to goal setting. Individual aspirations are unique and multifaceted, encompassing various aspects of life. The beauty of disability goal setting lies in its malleability – it empowers people to craft goals that address specific needs and challenges across different domains.

Functional Goals: Mastering Daily Life, Embracing Independence

Whether it's conquering morning routines, tackling household chores, or navigating public spaces with confidence, functional goals empower people to take charge of their everyday life. These goals focus on building and enhancing skills critical for independent living, fostering a sense of control and autonomy.

Imagine waking up without an alarm clock, preparing breakfast with ease, and confidently stepping out the door, all thanks to strategically set functional goals. Perhaps you've worked on strengthening someones grip to open jars with dexterity, mastered the art of using adaptive technology, or developed routines for managing fatigue. Each mastered skill paves the way for increased independence and a life less reliant on external support.

But functional goals aren't solely about mastering chores. They extend to conquering communication barriers, managing symptoms, and building essential life skills. Setting goals to practice assertive communication, improve pain management techniques, or learn effective budgeting strategies empowers people to navigate daily life with increased confidence and self-sufficiency.

Social Goals: Building Bridges, Cultivating Connection

Life thrives on meaningful connections. Social goals bridge the gap between aspirations and a fulfilling social life, enriching experiences and fostering strong bonds with others. These goals encompass building friendships, participating in enjoyable activities, and overcoming communication barriers that may hinder social interaction.

Perhaps there’s a goal to join a disability support group, volunteer in the community, or simply practice small talk with neighbours. Each connection established, each barrier overcome, strengthens the sense of belonging and contributes to a richer, more fulfilling social life.

But social goals also encompass advocating for oneself and promoting inclusion. Setting goals to raise awareness about disability, educate others about accessibility needs, or challenge societal stereotypes empowers people to be a catalyst for positive change. Remember, building bridges through social goals doesn't just enhance life; it contributes to a more inclusive and understanding world for everyone.

Educational or Employment Goals

Disability goal setting isn't confined to the four walls of someone's home. It empowers people to conquer academic and professional aspirations, scaling the ladders of success with determination. Whether the dream is to excel in school, launch a dream career, or break down barriers in the workplace, goals become the fuel that propels people forward.

Setting goals to master relevant skills, develop a professional network, or overcome workplace accessibility challenges opens doors to opportunities that may have been considered out of reach. Remember, a disability doesn't define a person's professional potential; it shapes their unique journey to success.

Personal Growth Goals: Unlocking Inner Potential

Our lives are journeys of constant evolution, and disability goal setting provides the compass to navigate this growth and unfold inner potential. These goals go beyond the practical, delving into your deepest desires for self-improvement, creative expression, and personal exploration. Perhaps there’s a dream of conquering a physical challenge, mastering a new art form, or travelling to a dream holiday destination.

The SMART Compass: Navigating the Path to Goal Achievement

So, you've identified the mountain that needs to be conquered. But how do you translate that into tangible steps and ultimately, success? Enter the SMART framework, the trusty compass for navigating the sometimes-tumultuous terrain of goal setting. This acronym guides people towards crafting goals that are not just aspirational, but achievable and impactful. Let's delve into each element of SMART, enabling dreams to turn into reality.

S: Specific – Charting a Clear Course

Vagueness is the enemy of achievement. A goal like "be healthier" lacks the specificity needed to inspire action and track progress. Instead, make it "Walk for 30 minutes 3 times a week for the next 3 months." This clarity not only provides a roadmap, but also fuels motivation with visible milestones. Imagine the satisfaction of ticking off those walks, inching closer to a healthier self, step by step.

Remember, specificity extends beyond actions. Clearly define the desired outcome of a goal. Instead of "Get a job," aim for "Secure a marketing assistant position at a disability-inclusive company within 6 months." This precision not only targets an effort, but also opens doors to relevant resources and opportunities, bringing the dream job closer to reach.

M: Measurable – Quantifying Your Success

Progress thrives on visibility. Without measurable benchmarks, how can you celebrate victories or adjust course if needed? Incorporate quantitative elements into goals. Instead of "Improve communication skills," aim to "Deliver presentations without stuttering in front of an audience of 10 people by April." This measurability not only fuels motivation with tangible accomplishments, but also allows you to monitor progress and make strategic adjustments when necessary.

Remember, measurement isn't limited to numbers. If the goal is to "Strengthen relationships," create measurable milestones like "Schedule weekly calls with a friend" or "Initiate conversations with 3 new people every month." By quantifying efforts, there’s a sense of direction and an opportunity to celebrate meaningful progress within relationships.

A: Attainable – Reaching for the Stars with Feet on the Ground

Ambition is admirable, but setting goals that are beyond current capacities can lead to discouragement and ultimately, abandonment. SMART goals strike a delicate balance between aspiration and realism. Consider resources, strengths, and limitations when crafting goals. Instead of "Run a marathon next month," start with "Walk or jog for 15 minutes daily for 6 weeks." This attainable starting point sets you on a path to success, boosting confidence and paving the way for gradual progress towards the bigger aspiration.

Remember, attainability also considers external factors. If the goal is "Travel to Europe," research accessible travel options, visa requirements, and potential challenges based on the disability. By factoring in realistic obstacles, an achievable roadmap can be created, ensuring the travel dreams stay grounded in reality and actionable steps.

R: Relevant – Aligning Your Goals with Your North Star

A goal devoid of connection to the overall life vision is like a ship without a sail, adrift in a sea of possibilities. SMART goals are tethered to the core values, dreams, and aspirations of the person. Instead of "Write a book," ask, "Why do I want to write? What message do I want to share?" Connecting the goal to a deeper purpose provides direction, fuels motivation, and ensures efforts align with the true north star.

Remember, relevance extends beyond personal desires. Consider how the goals impact the community or contribute to a larger cause. If the goal is "Improve communication skills," ask yourself, "How can this skill be used to advocate for disability rights?" Aligning goals with something bigger than oneself adds a layer of meaning and purpose, propelling people forward with a sense of responsibility and impact.

T: Time-bound – Defining the Horizon of Achievement

Open-ended goals are like invitations to procrastination. The "someday" never arrives, leading to stagnation and unfulfilled dreams. SMART goals inject the urgency of a ticking clock, propelling people towards action. Instead of "Learn a new language," set a deadline of "Speak basic Spanish in everyday conversations within 1 year." This time-bound structure provides a sense of focus, fosters accountability, and celebrates achievements along the way.

Remember, time-bound goals can be flexible. If the initial deadline appears unattainable, adjust it realistically while maintaining a sense of urgency. The key is to create a timeline that motivates progress without creating undue pressure.

By mastering the five pillars of SMART, we can transform aspirations into action plans, equip ourselves with a roadmap for success, and ignite the spark of achievement within.

Conquering the Mountain: Strategies to Overcome Challenges in Disability Goal Setting

The path to achieving any goal, especially with a disability, is rarely smooth sailing. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but they are not insurmountable. This section equips you with a potent arsenal of strategies to navigate these hurdles. Let's dive into the trenches and explore actionable tactics for success.

Limited Resources and Accessibility

Financial constraints, lack of accessible equipment, or inadequate support services can make goal setting challenging. Experienced support workers or healthcare professionals should be able to provide help in turning NDIS goals into actionable SMART goals. All staff at Ascend Health for example, receive regular training and mentorship when it comes to writing SMART goals, and these are required to be reviewed on a regular basis. You can also discuss adaptive technology options, DIY adaptations, and alternative solutions that work within budgets and accessibility needs. Innovation and resourcefulness can pave the way where traditional resources seem limited.

Proactively connect with disability support groups, mentorship programs, and community networks. These invaluable resources often provide access to equipment loans, peer support, and expert guidance, filling any gaps in your resource network. Don't shy away from requesting accommodations and advocating for your needs – be your own champion!

Physical and Mental Limitations

Chronic pain, fatigue, sensory issues, or psychological hurdles can present significant challenges on the road to goal attainment. Listen to your body and prioritise self-care. Schedule rest breaks, utilise assistive devices, and implement pain management strategies. Remember, progress doesn't always mean pushing through; sometimes, it's about taking a strategic step back to recharge and return with renewed energy.

Challenge negative self-talk with affirmations and positive visualisation techniques. Discuss progress and modify SMART goals as needed, whether it's through therapy, disability coaching, or informal support networks. Taking care of mental and physical wellbeing equips people with the resilience to overcome any internal limitations, and it shouldn’t have to be done alone.

People Also Ask Questions

Can people with disabilities set goals?

Absolutely! Disability doesn't define potential or limit aspirations. Just like anyone else, individuals with disabilities can set ambitious goals, chart their course, and achieve remarkable things. In fact, disability goal setting can be even more transformative, empowering people to overcome challenges, build resilience, and discover hidden strengths.

Remember, goals can be tailored to specific needs and abilities. Whether the focus is on improving daily living skills, pursuing academic dreams, or conquering personal challenges, disability goal setting provides a powerful framework for navigating the unique journey of individuals and achieving a fulfilling life.

How can I overcome disability barriers to achieving my goals?

The very essence of disability goal setting lies in empowering people to tackle barriers head-on. Here are some key strategies:

• Identify and analyse the barriers: Be proactive in understanding the specific challenges you face related to your disability. Is it limited accessibility, lack of resources, negative self-talk, or external societal barriers? Analysing the root cause empowers you to find targeted solutions.
• Utilise the SMART framework: Craft well-defined goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This focus keeps you on track and helps you identify specific areas where you might encounter barriers.
• Seek support and resources: Don't hesitate to tap into existing networks of disability support groups, advocacy organisations, and government assistance programs. These resources can provide valuable guidance, equipment loans, and financial assistance to overcome practical barriers.
• Advocate for yourself: Be your own champion! Communicate your needs clearly, request reasonable accommodations, and don't shy away from challenging societal stereotypes that hinder accessibility.

What are some best goal-setting tools for people with disabilities?

A plethora of tools exists to support your disability goal-setting journey. Here are a few ideas:

• Accessible goal-setting apps and planners: Look for apps specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, featuring voice recognition, audio prompts, and customisable templates. Explore physical planners with large print, tactile elements, or braille options.
• Adaptive technology: Assistive devices like screen readers, magnification software, and speech-to-text tools can help you navigate goal-setting platforms and create accessible documentation.
• Support groups and online communities: Joining online communities or local support groups dedicated to disability goal setting provides a wealth of information, shared experiences, and peer support to keep you motivated and on track.

What's the next step

This journey isn't just about climbing mountains; it's about etching individual stories into the landscape of possibility. Take that first step, celebrate every victory, and never underestimate the power of a single, determined goal. As Nelson Mandela once said, "It always seems impossible until it's done". Ensuring you're proactive about setting goals will help get the most out of your NDIS plan. Speaking of being proactive, do you know what happens to unspent NDIS funds?