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The start of a new year feels like the perfect time to dream big, set intentions, and imagine how we will transform our lives. But let’s be honest—how often do those goals lose their sparkle after a few weeks? It’s not that we don’t want to achieve them; it’s that life gets in the way, motivation wanes, and suddenly, the goals we were so excited about feel like a distant memory.
So, how do you hang on to the goals you set? How do you ensure that this is the year you follow through? Let’s explore ways to turn those New Year’s goals into lasting success.
Connect to Your Why
Have you ever set a goal that sounded great on paper but didn’t stick? Chances are, it wasn’t deeply connected to what truly matters to you. Goals that last are tied to something bigger—your values, your vision, or the life you want to create.
Ask yourself:
Why is this goal important to me?
What impact will achieving it have on my life?
How will I feel when I’ve reached it?
When you’re clear on your why, your goal becomes more than a checkbox—it becomes part of who you are. Write it down, keep it visible, and remind yourself of it daily.
Break It Down
Big goals can be exciting, but they can also feel overwhelming. That’s why breaking them into smaller, actionable steps can make all the difference.
Let’s say your goal is to “get healthier this year.” What does that look like? Does it mean walking for 20 minutes each day? Swapping sugary drinks for water? Scheduling a check-up? Defining specific steps makes the path forward more precise and manageable.
Remember, every small step you take brings you closer to the bigger picture. Celebrate those wins—each one is proof of your progress.
Build Habits, Not Just Goals
Motivation is fleeting, but habits stick. The secret to hanging onto your goals is weaving them into your daily life until they become second nature.
Here’s how to start:
Anchor new habits to old ones. For example, if you’re already making coffee every morning, use that time to write down three things you’re grateful for.
Start small. Instead of committing to an hour-long workout five days a week, begin with 15 minutes daily and build from there.
Track your progress. Seeing your consistency can be incredibly motivating, whether it’s a habit tracker app or a simple journal.
Habits bridge where you are and where you want to be.
Overcoming Setbacks
Let’s get real—no journey is without its challenges. Maybe you miss a day, hit a plateau, or start doubting yourself. That’s okay. What matters is how you respond.
Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, treat them as opportunities to learn. Ask yourself:
What caused me to stumble?
What can I do differently next time?
How can I adjust without giving up?
Remember, progress isn’t linear, and perfection isn’t the goal. Keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Stay Focused on the Vision
When the initial excitement of a goal fades, it’s easy to lose sight of why you started. This is when it helps to revisit your bigger vision.
Visualize what success looks like for you. Picture yourself achieving your goal—how does it feel? What’s different about your life? Create a vision board, write affirmations, or reflect on your goals in a journal. These practices keep your aspirations alive and front of mind.
You’ve Got This
Holding onto your goals isn’t about willpower but clarity, consistency, and grace. It’s about knowing why your goals matter, taking small steps daily, and giving yourself the freedom to learn and grow.
This year, let’s commit to progress, not perfection. Let’s lean into the process, celebrate the small wins, and embrace every step forward—no matter how small.
Love and BIG Belief,
Terri Schafer
If you have been considering hiring a coach, don’t wait any longer. Take the opportunity to invest in yourself! Schedule a complimentary 30-minute discovery call to explore how having a coach can offer you valuable partnership and accountability. You have nothing to lose and progress to gain.
I look forward to hearing from you!