As I enter my 22nd week of pregnancy (my baby girl is now the size of a grapefruit!), I’m more focused than ever on creating meaningful goals. Today, I want to share the exact framework that’s helping me prepare for an incredible 2025.
Why Goal Setting Matters
Goal setting isn’t just about writing down wishes. It’s about:
- Gaining clarity
- Maintaining focus
- Creating measurable results
But here’s what I’ve learned: Most people fail at goal setting because they skip crucial steps.
The Vision Exercise
Before setting specific goals, start here:
- Close your eyes
- Imagine your successful year
- Ask yourself:
- What does it look like?
- How does it feel?
- Who are you with?
Making It Real
Don’t just think about your vision – write it down with incredible detail. For example: Instead of: “I want to make more money” Write: “I’m earning $10K monthly while working 20 hours weekly, traveling twice yearly, and spending weekends with family.”
The SMART Goal Framework
Make every goal:
- Specific: What exactly do you want?
- Measurable: How will you track it?
- Achievable: Is it realistic?
- Relevant: Does it align with your vision?
- Time-bound: What’s your deadline?
A Real Example
Let’s say you want to lose weight: “Lose 15 pounds by June 30th by exercising 4 days weekly and eating 80% clean meals”
This works because it’s clear, trackable, and time-bound.
Breaking It Into Steps
Here’s what most people get wrong (I know I did): They jump from step 1 to step 10, skipping everything in between.
Instead:
- Identify your first step
- Take that step
- Then identify the next one
- Repeat
Think of it like ordering from Amazon:
- Search product
- Read reviews
- Add to cart
- Complete purchase
Each step builds on the last.
Stay Accountable
I’ve learned this the hard way: Ideas without tracking are just wishes. Here’s what works:
- Use a System
- Journal
- App
- Weekly check-ins
- Review Regularly
- Track daily progress
- Weekly reviews
- Monthly assessments
Be Flexible But Don’t Quit
Life happens. My mentor shared a perfect example: If your goal is to save $10,000 by December and an unexpected expense hits in March, adjust your monthly savings goal – but don’t abandon the goal entirely.
Remember: You wouldn’t quit on someone you love, so don’t quit on yourself.
Your Action Plan
Here’s what to do today:
- Take 5 minutes to write your vision
- Create one SMART goal from that vision
- Identify your first action step
- Schedule weekly review time
Important Note
Don’t try to do everything at once. I made this mistake last year – starting multiple projects without finishing any. Choose one goal, complete it, then move to the next.
Your Call to Action
Tonight, before bed, take these three steps:
- Write down what you truly want (be specific!)
- Turn it into a SMART goal
- Identify ONE action you can take tomorrow
Share in the comments: What’s your first goal for 2025? Let’s support each other in making this our best year yet.
Remember: Everything starts with clarity about what you want. Without that, you’re just hoping things work out.