Achieve Big in 2024: Purpose Driven Goal Setting Strategies

We are coming to the end of the year, and with the new year coming up, we start to think about the goals we want to achieve (and didn't achieve this year). In the Forbes One Health Survey, the top five 2024 NYE resolutions are:

Improve fitness
Improve finances
Improve mental health
Lose weight
Improve diet

I don't know if some of you are like me, but I have the best intentions and say "this is the year", and then, stuff gets in the way, or I make excuses and intentions fall by the wayside. Is it surprising that NYEs resolutions only last 1-4 months into the new year?!

There are lots of reasons that our intents are not our outcomes - unrealistic expectations, having too many goals, no planning, lack of motivation, not setting habits, no accountability, and so on.

I've taken a step back and instead of jumping right into declaring my NYE resolutions, I've re-assessed how andy why the goals are the goals that I want to focus on. Adapting the SMART goals framework, I've added some additional steps that offer more insight and a higher probability that the goals will be achieved.

Goal Setting Framework — Purpose Driven Goals

Reflection

Before setting your goals for 2024, take a moment to reflect on the past. This step is an opportunity to reflect on the goals that you started off with and where you actually landed. Learning and applying any lessons provides insight into how to not fall into the same traps should those same circumstances occur.

What goal did I want to achieve?
What got in the way of achieving the goal?
What could I have done differently?

In reflecting, don't dwell on what you didn't accomplish. but rather focus on the knowledge and growth gained from them. Reflecting on the past isn't just about identifying the misses, but also acknowledging values, accomplishments, and strengths. Use this knowledge to shape your vision for the future.

Your WHY

Before diving into setting your goals for 2024, it's essential to define your Why. A clear vision will guide you in making decisions and setting goals that align with your values and aspirations.

Why is this goal important to me?
How will achieving this goal better my life?
How does this goal align with my values and beliefs?
What is at stake if I don't achieve this goal?

Understanding your motivations will help you focus on why you are working on these goals in the first place, especially when you get distracted and lose focus.

Visioning

Fast forward and vision yourself after you have achieved the goal.

How will I know when I've achieved this goal?
What would success look like?
How would it feel after I accomplish this goal?

Seeing yourself in your future state is a strong motivator and can sometimes give you the sense of already accomplishing your goals.

Goal Plan

By setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable (Action-Oriented), Relevant (Results Driven) Time-Bound), goals for yourself, you can ensure that you're taking actionable steps towards success in 2024. As part of this step, identify what is doable on a weekly, monthly, quarterly basis.

What steps are needed to achieve this goal?
How will I track and measure progress?
What resources, people and tools do I need to support me?
How can I hold myself accountable? Do I need an accountability partner?

It's important to break down the goals into manageable milestones and create an action plan to stay focused and motivated.

Reflect & Revise

Throughout the year, check in with yourself to assess what is working and what is not working? Adjust and change course if it makes sense.

What is working well?
What am I struggling with?
What additional support do I need to help me achieve this goal?
Are there new or higher goals that I should set?

When working towards a goal, set backs, obstacles and unexpected challenges are bound to arise. In these moments, we may feel frustrated, self-doubt, and even question if achieving the goal is possible. However, keep in mind that obstacles are not roadblocks, but are opportunities to learn and grow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, setting goals is the key to unlocking your potential and achieving success in 2024. By reflecting on the past, defining your Why, visioning your future, setting SMART goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, overcoming obstacles, seeking support, and being adaptable, you can make significant progress towards your aspirations.

Remember to stay focused, motivated, and flexible in the face of challenges, and never be afraid to adjust and revise your goals as circumstances change. With these goal setting strategies in mind, you can make 2024 the year you achieve big and make your dreams a reality.