New Day. New Month. New Year. New Beginnings.
Happy New Year!
These three words often spark a renewed sense of joy, excitement, and the promise of progress. For many, the start of a new year feels like the perfect time to reset expectations, embrace fresh opportunities for growth, or even revisit the commitments left unfulfilled from the prior year. No judgment here — we all have those goals that didn’t quite make it across the finish line. Each year, I’m often reminded of this quote by Bill Gates: “Most people overestimate what can be achieved in a year yet underestimate what can be achieved in a decade.” For me, it’s a reminder to play the long game — to focus not just on quick wins but on sustainable progress over time.
In any event, there’s an undeniable energy that lingers throughout January, a kind of freshness that feels almost tangible. I liken it to the invigorating scent of a fresh shower — it’s refreshing, yet fleeting. Just think about it for a minute. Have you ever noticed how stepping outside for a quick walk or grocery run can subtly shift your body scent or clothing? Yes, the outside air has a distinct smell; let’s not debate this reality, haha! In the same way, the energy of January can begin to fade if we’re not intentional about sustaining it.
It’s no surprise, then, that studies show nearly 40% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions by the end of January. That statistic is shocking; but perhaps what’s even more concerning is how many people skip setting goals entirely—whether it’s at the start of the year, mid-year, or any other time. Why? I suspect it’s because they’ve experienced the sting of unmet personal commitments and would rather avoid disappointment altogether.
But here’s the thing: opting out of goal-setting altogether is like walking around with a sign that says, “I don’t want to grow.” Do you realize you are inadvertently choosing to live below your full potential when you forgo your goals?
I fully believe that goals underpin growth and that growth sets the foundation to thrive. Without goals, we limit our potential and cheat ourselves of the possibility to become more. Be it personally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually, your capacity for growth rise or falls to the degree in which you set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals. The good news is that meaningful growth doesn’t have to be overwhelming or elusive.
Let me help you move forward with clarity and purpose in sharing three key pitfalls I’ve encountered in the past and the lessons I learned along the way:
1. Lack of Emotional Attachment: Know Your Why
In the past, I set goals to meet others’ expectations or because they seemed like the “logical next step” based on societal norms. But true growth didn’t happen until I deeply connected with the why behind my goals. Your why is your anchor, your driving force — and it will change your life when you understand and embrace it.
2. Setting Unattainable Big Goals Without a Plan
Dreaming big is essential, but I’ve learned that achieving those dreams requires breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps. Without the right habits and character in place, chasing massive goals can feel overwhelming. Focusing on small, incremental progress builds momentum and successful habits that lead to lasting change.
3. Solely Focusing on Outcomes Over the Process
For a long time, I was fixated on achieving results, often overlooking the value of the person I was becoming in the process. This mindset led to burnout and a constant state of overwhelm. The truth is, who you become along the journey matters just as much — if not more — than the goal itself.
As you step into this new year filled with endless possibilities, I encourage you to reflect on your own growth journey. I invite you to set aside an hour, grab a journal, and reflect on these five powerful questions:
What people and experiences made you feel inspired, energized, and/or empowered?
What people and experiences made you feel discouraged, disconnected, or depleted over the past year?
In what ways did you grow—physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually—and what did you learn about yourself?
In what ways can you become a better version of yourself in the upcoming months/years in an effort to fulfill your potential and purpose?
What are you willing to start, stop, or continue during that will be most beneficial in achieving your goals?