Okay, so let’s get real for a second. Goal setting used to be my thing. I’d start every January with a shiny new planner, a Pinterest-worthy vision board, and a list of goals so long it could double as a CVS receipt. Fast forward to March, and I’d be staring at that same list, wondering why I hadn’t even touched half of it. Sound familiar? 🙃
But here’s the thing: I’ve cracked the code. Not in a “here’s a 10-step plan to success” kind of way (because honestly, who has time for that?), but in a way that actually works for me. And if you’re anything like me—busy, ambitious, and maybe a little overwhelmed—you’re going to want to keep reading.
First, let’s talk about why most goal-setting strategies fail. Spoiler alert: it’s not because you’re lazy or unmotivated. It’s because the system is broken. We’re taught to set these huge, lofty goals (think: “lose 20 pounds,” “start a business,” “write a novel”) without breaking them down into manageable steps. And then, when we inevitably fall short, we beat ourselves up about it. No bueno.
Here’s what I’ve learned: goals need to be specific and realistic. For example, instead of saying, “I want to get fit,” I now say, “I want to work out three times a week for 30 minutes.” It’s tangible, it’s measurable, and it’s way less intimidating. And guess what? I’ve actually stuck to it.
Another game-changer for me was focusing on process goals instead of outcome goals. Let me explain. An outcome goal is something like, “I want to lose 10 pounds.” A process goal is, “I’m going to meal prep every Sunday and go to yoga twice a week.” See the difference? The outcome is out of your control (your body might not lose weight as quickly as you’d like), but the process is totally within your power. And when you focus on the process, the outcomes tend to follow.
Now, let’s talk about accountability. I used to think I could do it all on my own, but here’s the truth: we all need a little help sometimes. For me, that meant finding a goal buddy. My bestie and I started checking in with each other every Sunday to talk about our wins, our struggles, and our plans for the week. It’s not about judgment—it’s about support. And honestly, it’s been a game-changer.
One thing I’ve also had to learn is to celebrate the small wins. We’re so focused on the end goal that we forget to acknowledge the progress we’re making along the way. Did I hit all three of my workouts this week? Heck yes, and I’m treating myself to a fancy coffee. Did I stick to my meal prep plan? Absolutely, and I’m giving myself a mental high-five. Those little victories add up, and they keep you motivated.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are days when I feel like giving up, when the goals seem too big and the effort seems too much. On those days, I remind myself of my “why.” Why did I set this goal in the first place? What’s the bigger picture? For me, it’s about feeling strong, confident, and in control of my life. And that’s worth the effort.
So, if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, here’s my advice: start small, focus on the process, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. Goals aren’t about perfection—they’re about progress. And progress, no matter how small, is still progress.