We’ve all been there—setting goals that sound great but feel heavy.
How many of you, like me, set the same goals year after year, but never achieve them? I’m on my fifth year of “starting my strength training routine”. I’m still not there.
The truth? A goal that feels good in your body, mind, and spirit is way more likely to become reality.
So, let’s talk through some steps for getting there and set just one goal, that feels good, to work on as a first step.
Step 1: Get Specific—but Keep It Soulful
I’m sure many of you are familiar with the process for ensuring goals meet the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant/Realistic, and Timebound.
SMART goals are powerful, but they’re not enough. They also must resonate with something deeper within us.
Step 2: Use the Body Check-In
Your nervous system knows. This is where the old adage of “gut feeling” comes in. If a goal feels like tension or dread, it may need to be broken down or re-aligned. Or it may not be realistic.
Step 3: Emotion = Fuel
Add excitement, not just logic. Ask: “Does this goal make me feel hopeful, empowered, or clear?”
Step 4: Overcome Resistance by Planning for It
What roadblocks do you expect? Name them. Write them down in your journal. Divide a page into two columns. In one column, write the roadblock. In the other column, write how you will address it. Then rehearse how you’ll show up with grace when they come.
Step 5: Declare & Celebrate
Use the SMART Goals framework to write a goal you feel in your bones. Then post it on your mirror, on your computer, on the fridge – somewhere, so it’s a daily reminder!
Celebrate the courage it takes to name it.
Progress follows energy—and energy follows alignment.