Set Goals in Google Calendar on iOS & Android - Step-by-Step
Google Calendar's New Goals Feature: A Comprehensive Guide
This month, Google integrated a Goals function into its Calendar applications for both iOS and Android platforms. This innovative feature intelligently identifies available time slots within your existing schedule. It then automatically books recurring events designed to assist you in realizing your objectives.
Setting Up Goals in Google Calendar
The Google Calendar application is pre-installed on most Android devices. For iPad and iPhone users, while you can synchronize your Gmail, contacts, and calendar with the native iOS apps, downloading the official Google Calendar app is recommended. This provides access to enhanced functionalities, including reminders – and now, the new Goals feature.
This new capability is particularly useful for scheduling consistent time blocks dedicated to goal attainment. Google Calendar proactively locates free periods within your calendar, based on the parameters you define. Should a scheduling conflict arise, Google will automatically reschedule your goal session to a more suitable date.
Related: Utilizing the Reminders Feature in Google Calendar
To initiate goal setup, tap the Create button located at the bottom right corner of the Google Calendar app.
From the subsequent pop-up menu, select Goal.
Choosing Your Goal Type
You will then be presented with a selection of goal categories. Currently available options encompass exercise, skill development, quality time with loved ones, personal relaxation, and life organization. For this example, we will configure a goal centered around learning a musical instrument; however, the process remains consistent regardless of your chosen objective. Select "Build a skill."
The next screen displays a list of skills aligned with the chosen category. Alternatively, you can tap "Custom..." to define a personalized goal. Here, we will select "Practice an instrument."
If you opt for a pre-defined skill, Google Calendar will offer suggestions to refine your goal. You also have the flexibility to manually enter a custom skill name, as demonstrated in this instance.
Defining Frequency and Duration
Subsequently, specify the desired frequency for working towards your goal. This selection dictates how often Google Calendar will schedule recurring events.
Then, determine the length of each goal-focused session.
Finally, indicate your preferred time of day for dedicating time to your goal.
Google Calendar will present a summary of your new goal, incorporating your chosen settings. Tap the Done button to finalize the creation. If adjustments are needed, simply select "More Options."
Managing Scheduled Goals
Upon returning to your calendar view, you will observe that your new goal-oriented sessions have been automatically scheduled. Tapping on a specific session allows you to perform actions such as rescheduling, marking it as completed, or modifying the goal settings.
Clicking the Edit button reveals options for altering either the selected session or all sessions associated with the goal. If a session becomes unfeasible, simply tap Defer.
Google Calendar will automatically identify an alternative time for your deferred goal and integrate it into your schedule.
With this setup complete, you'll have a streamlined system for prioritizing your goals. Start making progress today!