Where am I right now?

Every journey begins by understanding where you are. This step helps young people look at their current situation, strengths, challenges, needs, experiences and circumstances. Before you can create a route to where you want to go, you have to understand your starting point.

Who am I?

Understanding yourself is an important part of knowing where you want to go. This step helps young people discover their strengths, interests, gifts, values, passions and potential. GPS encourages young people to understand that their current circumstances do not define their future.

Where do I want to go?

You can't create a route without knowing your destination. This step helps young people identify their purpose, dreams, aspirations and goals. GPS helps turn ideas and dreams into goals that can be explored and planned for.

What will it take to get there?

Once you know where you want to go, you need a plan for getting there. GPS helps young people create a personalized roadmap that may include education, skills, experiences, resources, relationships, strategies, action steps and timelines.

What might stand in my way?

Every journey can have roadblocks. Young people will face challenges, unexpected circumstances and difficult decisions. This step helps them identify potential obstacles and understand how choices and circumstances can affect their journey. A roadblock doesn't mean the journey is over.

What happens when things don't go as planned?

Sometimes the original route doesn't work. GPS teaches young people that having to change direction does not mean they have failed. They can reassess, adjust their plan, ask for help, find another route and keep moving toward their destination. Recalculating doesn't mean giving up. It means finding another way forward.

Who can help me along the way?

You don't have to navigate the journey alone. GPS provides support and connects young people with the people, resources and opportunities they need along the way. Mentors, educators, community members and other supportive people can provide guidance, encouragement, perspective and connections. We don't drive the car for you. We help you learn how to navigate.

How will I know I'm making progress?

The journey isn't only about reaching the final destination. It's also about recognizing the progress you make along the way. GPS helps young people identify goals, action steps and milestones so they can recognize their accomplishments, growth and continued development. Every step forward matters.

What does reaching my goal look like?

Reaching a destination is a moment to celebrate. This step gives young people an opportunity to recognize their accomplishments, reflect on what they learned and understand how far they've come. But reaching one destination doesn't mean the journey is over.

Where do I go from here? Every destination can lead to another destination. After reaching a goal, young people can reflect on their growth, identify new opportunities, create new goals and begin planning their next journey. Your story doesn't end at one destination. There's always a next step.