Sarah Pichardo Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
The new year is the perfect time for a fresh start. Sure, we’ve all heard the cliché “new year, new me,” but how often does that really stick? Most resolutions fade by February, leaving us right where we started. But what if we flipped the script? Instead of making vague promises to “get healthier” or “save money,” let’s talk about setting goals that actually mean something to you—and that you can stick to.
Step 1: Reflect on What Matters
Before you grab a pen and start scribbling down goals, take a moment to reflect on the past year. What made you proud? What drained your energy? Be honest with yourself. This isn’t about self-criticism; it’s about figuring out what worked and what didn’t so you can move forward with purpose.
For example, if you realized you loved picking up that new hobby (hello, pottery class), maybe your goal is to dive deeper into it. On the flip side, if that weekly “networking coffee” with your co-worker just felt like awkward small talk, it’s okay to cut that from your routine.
Step 2: Make Your Goals Personal
A lot of people fall into the trap of setting goals based on what they think they should do. Forget what your Instagram feed says or your overly ambitious friend is doing. This is about you.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What genuinely excites me?
- What areas of my life feel out of balance?
- Where do I want to grow?
If you want to spend more time with family, your goal might be as simple as planning one family game night a month. If you’re itching to learn something new, maybe it’s time to sign up for that language class you’ve been eyeing.
Step 3: Keep It Realistic
There’s nothing wrong with dreaming big, but if your goal feels impossible, it’s going to be hard to stick with it. Instead of saying, “I’m going to work out every day,” start with, “I’ll move my body three times a week, whether that’s yoga, walking, or dancing around my kitchen.”
Break your goals into bite-sized chunks that feel achievable. Want to save $5,000 this year? Start by setting aside $100 from each paycheck. Small wins add up, and they’ll keep you motivated.
Step 4: Write It Down and Revisit It
Something magical happens when you put your goals on paper. It makes them real. Keep your list somewhere visible—on your fridge, your desk, or even as a note on your phone.
And don’t forget to revisit your goals regularly. Life happens, and priorities change. If something isn’t working, it’s okay to adjust. The point isn’t perfection; it’s progress.
Step 5: Celebrate Your Wins
Here’s the fun part—celebrate your successes, no matter how small they seem. Hit your savings goal for the month? Treat yourself to your favorite coffee. Finally finish that book you’ve been reading forever? Share it with a friend and talk about your favorite parts.
Recognizing your progress helps you stay motivated and reminds you why you started in the first place.
The new year isn’t about becoming a completely different person. It’s about growing into the best version of yourself, one step at a time. So grab that journal, dream a little, and set goals that make your heart happy. You’ve got this.
