5 Common Goal-Setting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Let’s talk about goal setting. You know, that thing we all swear we’re going to crush every January 1, only to feel overwhelmed by February. But here’s the truth: you have to be in the right mindset to set goals that stick.
Confession time: I didn’t even create a vision board or set solid goals until June 2024. Yep, mid-year. And even then, my vision board looked like it was made by a sleep-deprived toddler. My creativity tank was empty, and life was throwing haymakers. But guess what? That’s okay. You don’t need to have it all figured out by January 1—or even by Monday.
So, let’s dive into five common goal-setting mistakes and how to dodge them like the pro you are.
1. Setting Unrealistic Timelines
We’ve all heard it: “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Well, neither is a 20-pound weight loss, a college degree, or debt freedom.
Take Apple, for example. They didn’t release the iPhone 16 and then whip out the iPhone 17 a month later. Those sleek gadgets take time to develop because quality matters. Be the Apple of your own life. Give yourself realistic timelines to achieve your goals without sacrificing your sanity.
Example: Losing 20 pounds? Aim for 1-2 pounds per week. (Because math.)
Takeaway: Don’t rush. It’s not about how fast you get there; it’s about staying consistent.
2. Skipping Accountability
Ever heard the phrase “Keep your goals to yourself until they’re done”? Yeah, I’m calling B.S.—but with a twist. While you don’t need to broadcast your dreams to everyone on social media (because, let’s be real, not everyone’s rooting for you), you do need someone you trust to hold you accountable.
The American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) found that having an accountability partner increases your chances of success by 65%. Add regular check-ins, and that number jumps to 95%. Those odds are better than any lottery ticket!
Tip: Choose an accountability buddy who cheers you on, calls you out (lovingly), and keeps your goals between the two of you.
3. Failing to Measure Progress
If you can’t measure it, how do you know you’re winning?
I’m obsessed with tracking progress. In my fitness room, I’ve got a whiteboard to log workouts. In my office, I track how many clients I’ve helped. And every time I pay off a bill, I cross it off with the thickest, most satisfying marker. Trust me, the dopamine hit is real—and so is the dance party that follows.
Example: Use a journal, whiteboard, or app to track milestones. Celebrate every step, no matter how small.
4. Focusing on Too Many Goals
Here’s a hot take: You can’t do it all—at least not all at once.
In 2024, I focused on three goals: getting out of debt, buying a house, and writing my book. Three goals, six months, and yes, I nailed them all (with some speed bumps). For 2025, I’m sticking to three goals again—but this time, I’ve got 12 glorious months to crush them.
Pro Tip: Pick your top three priorities. Reflect monthly, adjust as needed, and save new goals for later. Overwhelm is not your friend.
5. Neglecting to Break Big Goals into Smaller Steps
Ever watched Joey Chestnut inhale hot dogs during a contest? Yeah, that’s NOT how you tackle your goals.
Big goals can feel like choking hazards if you try to tackle them all at once. Instead, savor the process by breaking them into bite-sized pieces.
Example: Writing a book? Start with a daily word count goal or outline one chapter at a time.
Takeaway: Small steps lead to big wins. Plus, you get to celebrate more often.
What’s Your Biggest Goal This Year?
Drop it in the comments! Let’s cheer each other on and make 2025 the year we crush it together.
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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.
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