This is the third essay in my series on defining and implementing a personal learning project. Check out my previous essays - and follow along with the full series.

I just pulled up my list of online classes and I hate to tell you how many I've purchased - especially if you ask me to also share how many I've completed. My completion rate is somewhere around 10% - and that's if I'm lucky.

This is a serious problem!

I've started getting very clear about my learning goal before I purchase a class, book, or other learning tool. This way, I can make sure this class supports that learning goal.

A learning goal is a clear, achievable, statement of something you want to learn or accomplish. They can be big or they can be small. Here are a few examples:

• I will learn to use Obsidian in order to manage my writing workflow

• I want to speak conversational Spanish so that I can navigate with confidence on my upcoming vacation to Spain

• I will earn my CCMP (Change Management) Certification so that I can apply for roles that have that as a requirement

• I want to communicate ideas using visuals more effectively in my presentations and facilitation

Identifying a clear learning goal BEFORE you start gathering resources provides focus so that you use your time and money more effectively.