Why Your Goals Aren’t Sticking—And How to Fix That
Why Your Goals Aren’t Sticking—And How to Fix That
I recently watched the sweetest Reel featuring a reality star from Love on the Spectrum who was interviewed on The Kelly Clarkson Show. He shared his personal goals—like meeting Jack Black by age 31 and moving back to his home state by 44. And guess what? He met Jack Black before 31.
That’s what happens when you’re intentional about your goals.
I can almost guarantee this man had those goals written down somewhere visible. He was speaking them out loud, holding himself accountable, and welcoming support from the people around him.
So, let me ask you: Are you doing the same? Are you setting SMART goals—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound?
If your goals aren’t sticking, here are three of the most common reasons—and how to fix them.
1. You’re Not Writing Them Down
Let’s be honest—you’re not alone here. Whenever a client tells me their goals aren’t working out, the first question I ask is:
“Did you write it down?”
If it’s not written down, it’s hard to track—and even harder to commit to. Take me, for example. I’m on a health journey. While weight loss isn’t my only focus, I still REFUSE to write down what I eat. And then? I complain that the scale doesn’t budge. See the disconnect?
There’s science behind this too: studies show that people who write down their goals are significantly more likely to achieve them.
📝 Tip: Get it out of your head and onto paper—or a notes app, or a planner. Your success rate skyrockets when you write things down.
2. You’re Not Visualizing Them Daily
Okay, so you’ve written down your goals—great! But where are they?
Tucked away in a notebook? Buried in a digital doc?
If your goals aren’t somewhere you can see them consistently, you’re less likely to stay focused.
Put them on a vision board. A sticky note on your bathroom mirror. Your phone wallpaper. Your desktop. Your fridge.
Whatever works—just make sure you see your goals every single day.
🎯 Pro Tip: Visualization keeps your goals top-of-mind and activates your brain’s reticular activating system (RAS), which helps filter in opportunities related to your focus.
3. You’re Not Telling Anyone
Accountability is everything.
There’s a quote that says, “Wait to tell anyone until it’s done.” Yeah… I’m not a fan. While you don’t need to announce your goals to the world, you do need someone who can hold you accountable.
Maybe it’s a life coach (hey, bestie 👋🏽), a partner, a best friend, or a sibling. The point is—how can people support you if they don’t know what you’re working on?
💡 Quick Tip: Share your goals with someone you trust. Not only will they keep you on track—they may know someone who can help you reach that next step.
A Fun Challenge: Create a Bucket List (and Actually Start It)
Everyone talks about having a bucket list. But do you actually have one written down?
Here’s what I want you to do:
Write down a list of experiences or goals you want to accomplish.
These can be big or small—and they don’t need to cost a thing.
Want to try goat yoga? Run a 5K? Hike that challenging trail?
Add it to the list.
Once you’ve made your list, choose one thing you can realistically do in the next 3 months.
Break it into mini SMART goals to make it actionable.
Progress doesn’t come from overthinking—it comes from taking the first step. If you post them on Instagram make sure to tag me @beyondthehorizonconsulting
Want more help setting realistic goals that actually stick?
📖 Grab my book Get It Together (Without Losing Your Mind)—you’ll find an entire Action Station dedicated to goal-setting with strategy and soul.
📬 And if you haven’t already, join my weekly Fuel Your Week newsletter. I share personal stories, coaching tips, and action steps to help you stay focused and aligned—every single Monday.
👉🏼 Buy the book - Subscribe to the Newsletter - or fuel me with some cafecito
💛 Your goals matter. Let’s get intentional and make them happen.
Disclaimer:
I am not a doctor, psychologist, or licensed therapist. Everything I share is based on my personal experiences and should not be considered professional advice. For personalized guidance, always consult a licensed medical or mental health professional—yes, a real one, not "Dr. Google" or the comment section of social media.
If you're in crisis, please call 911 or reach out to the 988 Lifeline for immediate support. You're not alone, and real help is available.
