As the new year approaches, many of us start thinking about New Year’s resolutions. We promise ourselves we’ll change, improve, or fix something about our lives. But the word resolution itself carries a connotation, it suggests that there is something that needs to be resolved.
This year, let’s shift the narrative. Instead of resolutions, let’s set goals.
Goals are forward-focused. They emphasize growth rather than correction, intention rather than pressure. Goals allow room for progress, learning, and flexibility, rather than all-or-nothing expectations that can leave us feeling discouraged when life inevitably gets in the way.
Even with the best intentions, setting goals can feel overwhelming. You might know you want something to be different but feel unsure where to start or worry about setting goals that feel unrealistic or too vague to follow through.
A helpful way to bring focus and structure to your goals is by using the SMART goal framework. The SMART Goal Framework helps turn abstract ideas into actionable steps:
- Specific: Clearly define what you want to accomplish, the more specific the goal, the easier it is to focus your efforts.
- Measurable: Identify how you will track progress, this helps you recognize growth and stay motivated.
- Achievable: Set goals that are realistic given your current circumstances, resources, and energy.
- Relevant: Make sure the goal aligns with what truly matters to you, not what you feel pressured to do.
- Time-bound: Give your goal a timeframe to create direction and accountability.
Moving Forward with Intention and choosing goals over resolutions allows space for self-compassion and flexibility. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Small, intentional steps add up over time, and setbacks are part of the process, not signs of failure.
As you enter the new year, consider asking yourself:
- What do I want to move toward, rather than fix?
- Let this be a year of intention, growth, and goals that support who you are becoming.
Your therapy, evaluation, and sports performance team at InSight Psychology is ready to help you and your family set goals for 2026 to get your back on track!
