A goal is something you want to achieve that is more broad, where as an objective is mores specific and is measurable (Jasper et al, 2013). An objective can be reached in a short amount of time, and can often help you achieve your goal. There may be multiple objectives that help achieve one goal. Objectives contain a step by step process to achieve (R2 Library & ANA, 2015). A goal may still be measurable but it is usually achieved in a longer time frame.

A project goal and objective is related to a specific project whereas professional goals and objectives relate to where you want to be professionally (Russo-Campisi, 2020). For example I would like to be a manager in the nursing informatics department. I needed to become an RN with a BSN. So my professional goal would be to graduate with my BSN, pass my boards, then get my MSN in Nurse Informatics. The objectives would be to pass the classes to be able to attain both degrees, and complete the required clinical.

I would like to graduate with my MSN this semester. Some objectives would be to complete the 216 hours of clinical within the 10 week timeframe. I will need to complete my assignments by the due dates to pass the class. I would like to get a job in nursing informatics when I graduate from Walden. To do that I need to network and meet as many people as I can. An objective would be to join LinkedIn. Another way is to attend conferences to keep my knowledge up and to meet people. Another goal I have is to lead projects that help with improving patient outcomes. Some objectives would be to attend leadership conferences or project management conferences to get some tips on how to successfully lead and manage a project. The next objective would be to start to lead meetings to get practice with public speaking

Question:

Respond to the discussion post above by offering one suggestion for refining a professional development goal and one strategy for achieving one of their goals. Support response with at least 2 APA scholar references. thank you.