Setting goals is a roadmap towards success. While it is a big step to set the eyes on the prize, there are times when achieving these dreams become challenging.

Coursera, a global online educational platform that provides learning experiences to thousands of students of all ages across the world, has shared several science-backed tips to guide those who wish to get back on track.

These reminders were then compiled and serve as counseling guidelines for students and faculty who seek the assistance of the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, which understands the days when inspiration doesn’t come and motivation dwindles.

They shared 11 pointers to keep in mind:

1. PUT YOUR GOAL ON THE CALENDAR.

A target finish date gives you a boost. It allows you to keep track of your progress. It gives you a heads up of how much further you have to go.

2. MAKE WORKING TOWARD YOUR GOAL A GOOD HABIT.

Make little steps toward your goal a normal activity. This way, you do not have to rely on feeling motivated. It becomes a normal daily activity. Create an “if-then” plan. For instance, “If I drink my cup of coffee, then I will spend the next minutes studying”. It is easier when you kick-off with a small task.

3. PLAN FOR IMPERFECTION.

Things will not always go exactly as planned. That’s okay. We cannot predict everything. However, we can prepare ourselves by listing down possible obstacles. Think of ways to handle it.

4. SET SMALL GOALS TO BUILD MOMENTUM.

Break your big goals into smaller chunks. Frequent small successes can drive long-term success.

5. TRACK YOUR PROGRESS.

There are many tools to track your goals. It can be a to-do list. Consider a calendar where you can cross off days as you accomplish them.

6. REWARD YOURSELF FOR THE LITTLE WINS AS WELL AS THE BIG ONES.

Reward boosts your interest and enjoyment. It can be as simple as taking a short break. It may also be a snack or an episode of your favorite series.

7. EMBRACE POSITIVE PEER PRESSURE.

Others can be great motivators. Being a part of a team boosts performance. Join a study group. Sign up for a gym class. Join a professional organization. Open up to a mentor, a teacher, a coach or a fellow member.

8. PRACTICE GRATITUDE INCLUDING FOR YOURSELF.

Gratitude improves physical and mental health as well as sleep. It brings a feeling of connection with others. It enhances motivation across time. It instills a sense of wanting to give back.

9. DO SOME MOOD LIFTING.

A good mood increases productivity and improvement. When you feel sluggish, spend time in nature. Get some sunlight. Exercise. Look at cute photos of animals. Watch funny videos.

10. CHANGE YOUR ENVIRONMENT.

A change of scenery can help you approach your task with fresh eyes. It may even give you a new sense of inspiration.

11. REMEMBER YOUR “WHY”.

Why is all this important to you? Keep digging until you get to the core value of your goal.