Try this exercise for goal setting to transform from confusion to clear action.
There’s something undeniably powerful about writing down your goals. What I know to be true, not just from my own personal experience but also from using this same technique with my clients is, it transforms ideas into intention. But setting goals isn’t just about writing them down for the sake of writing—it’s about connecting with what truly matters to you and creating a plan infused with meaning, purpose, and action.
Let’s dive into a process that not only helps you set goals but ensures you follow through with heart, clarity, and motivation.
Step 1: Create a Vision by Writing Down 10 Goals
Grab a journal and let yourself dream without limits. Write down 10 goals you’d love to achieve in the next year. These could be about your career, relationships, health, personal growth—whatever ignites your spirit.
Reflect:
- What goals would excite you to wake up every morning?
- Which goals feel expansive, even a little scary—but in the best way?
Wisdom: “Your dreams are your soul’s way of showing you what’s possible. Trust them.”
Step 2: Identify the Goal with the Biggest Impact
Look back at your list. Ask yourself:
- “Which one of these goals, if achieved, would create the most profound impact on my life?”
This is your power goal—the one that, if realized, would cause a ripple effect in other areas of your life.
Why This Matters: Focusing on one transformative goal keeps you clear, committed, and energized. It helps you avoid overwhelm and channel your energy into something life-changing.
Mantra: “I focus on what matters most, trusting that success in one area fuels growth in all.”
Step 3: Break It Down Into Actions
Once you’ve chosen your power goal, it’s time to break it into specific actions. These are the steps that bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.
Create an Action Plan:
- What’s the first thing you can do today?
- What weekly actions will move the needle forward?
- What milestones will help you track progress?
Example: If your goal is to launch a new business, actions could include:
- Researching your market
- Creating a business plan
- Setting up your website
- Reaching out to potential clients
Reflection Prompt: “What small action can I take this week that would make me feel proud of my progress?”
Step 4: Set a Real Deadline
Without a deadline, a goal is just a wish. Choose a realistic timeframe that balances urgency with sustainability.
Wisdom: “Deadlines turn dreams into commitments. They invite action and progress.”
Ask Yourself:
- “By when do I want to achieve this goal?”
- “What support or resources do I need to meet this deadline?”
Step 5: Align with Your Values and Strengthen Your Resolve
Success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about who you become along the way.
Ask:
- “What values will guide me through this journey?”
- “What characteristics must I embody to succeed?” (e.g., discipline, resilience, curiosity)
Mantra: “I am becoming the person who achieves this goal with integrity, purpose, and joy.”
Stay Connected to Your Why
When things get tough (because they will), come back to your why. Why does this goal matter? How will achieving it change your life?
Visualize: Imagine your life after you’ve accomplished your goal. How does it feel? Who have you become?
Encouragement: “Even when progress feels slow, trust the process. You are already closer than you think.”
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
What’s your power goal for the next year? Share your biggest dream or a small step you’re taking in the comments below. Let’s support each other in making our visions real.
Mantra to Carry with You: “I am capable of extraordinary growth. I choose to act with clarity, passion, and purpose.”