How Gabby Used Goal Setting to Rock Her Summer

Each of my guided journals features a student interview, because real stories from real kids can inspire big growth. In How’s Your Summer Gonna Rock?, part of the Rockin’ the Summer set of guided journals, I had the joy of interviewing Gabby, an 11-year-old competitive swimmer with a powerful story of goal setting, perseverance, and self-belief.
Gabby’s Goal: Qualifying for a Big Competition
Gabby started the summer with one big goal: to earn a spot in a specific swimming competition. She knew it would take effort, but she was ready to put in the work. During our interview, Gabby shared the steps she took to prepare. Her plan included long hours of training, adjusting her mindset, and staying focused even when things didn’t go as planned.
Facing Setbacks with Confidence
Like any athlete, Gabby experienced setbacks. There were times when progress felt slow or she questioned her ability to keep going. But Gabby leaned into her self-belief and her love for swimming. She stayed committed.
What stood out most was her strategy. Gabby understood that reaching a big goal required more than talent. It required a plan. She broke down her summer goal into smaller steps and used each day to move closer to it.
Why Gabby’s Story Matters
Gabby’s story is about more than swimming. It is about confidence, discipline, and turning a dream into a plan. Her journey shows other students that success is not always about winning. It is about staying committed, learning from failure, and pushing forward.
Help Your Student Set Their Own Summer Goals
The Rockin’ the Summer Set, which includes Gabby’s full interview, is more than just a journal. It is a tool to help your student reflect, plan, and grow. With fun prompts and thoughtful questions, the journal helps students:
- Explore their interests
- Set meaningful goals
- Create strategies to stay motivated
- Reflect on what they have learned
Whether your student is an athlete, an artist, or just figuring things out, this journal encourages them to believe in themselves and keep moving forward.
Get Your Copy Today
Ready to help your student rock their summer?
Order the Rockin’ the Summer Set of guided journals and let your student discover Gabby’s inspiring story while setting their own goals and tracking their progress.
Want more tools to build confidence and motivation?
Explore all of our guided journals for kids designed to support self-esteem, goal setting, and personal growth.
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Stacey Montgomery
Mom, Author, and Founder of Believe and Be Brave
© 2023 Stacey Montgomery. All rights reserved.
Last updated on April 19, 2025