When “New Year, New Me” Becomes “Same Old Story”
Jide was tired.
Not physically, but mentally—of repeating the same cycle year after year. He would start each January with a journal full of dreams and ambition bubbling in his chest. But come March, most of those goals were forgotten, buried under life’s noise and daily hustle.
He wasn’t lazy. He wasn’t undisciplined. He simply hadn’t learned how to set goals that stick.
Sound familiar?
You’re not alone.
Many ambitious people—just like Jide—mistake motivation for structure, and dreams for plans. But when you have the right framework, everything changes.
Let’s walk through the 6-Step Goal-Setting System that helped Jide finally follow through, hit his targets, and live intentionally.
Step 1: Clarify the “Why” Behind the Goal
Goals without a purpose are like vehicles without fuel.
Jide once set a goal to “get fit.” But it wasn’t until he tied that goal to being active for his future kids that he actually followed through.
Tip: Ask yourself, “Why does this matter to me?” Write it down. Purpose creates staying power.
Step 2: Make the Goal Specific and Measurable
“Make more money” is vague. “Earn ₦500,000/month from digital products” is clear.
When Jide started his side hustle, he shifted from abstract dreams to clear, trackable outcomes.
This helped him focus, make smarter choices, and measure progress accurately.
Use this formula:
“I want to [specific goal] by [specific date] so that I can [reason].”
Step 3: Break It Down Into Micro-Milestones
Big goals often collapse under their own weight. That’s why you must slice them into weekly or daily tasks.
Jide’s goal of writing a book felt overwhelming until he broke it down:
- 1 chapter/week
- 500 words/day
- 10 minutes every morning
Progress feels possible when it’s bite-sized.
Step 4: Create a Visual Tracker or Accountability System
Jide used a goal tracker app and a vision board pinned to his bedroom wall.
When you can see your goals, they stay top of mind.
Bonus: Share your goals with an accountability buddy or join a group that checks in weekly. Accountability multiplies momentum.
Step 5: Schedule the Goal into Your Calendar
If it’s not scheduled, it won’t happen.
Jide began blocking time on his calendar every evening for his most important goal. It wasn’t perfect at first, but consistency won.
Action step: Look at your calendar and give your goal a “home.” Treat it like a non-negotiable meeting.
Step 6: Review Weekly and Adjust Without Guilt
Perfection is not the goal—progress is.
Every Sunday, Jide reviewed what worked and what didn’t. If he slipped, he adjusted without beating himself up.
Build reflection into your routine. That’s how you grow faster and smarter.
Note This: Small Shifts, Big Wins
Jide didn’t become a superhero overnight. But by applying this 6-step system, he achieved more in 6 months than he had in 3 years. And the best part? He started believing in himself again.
You don’t need a new life—you just need a better system.
Setting goals is an essential part of personal and professional growth, but without a clear time frame, even the most ambitious goals can feel intangible. See How to Establish a Time Frame for Your Goal and Achieve It
Have you ever started something new, full of excitement, only to lose motivation along the way? That’s what happens when there’s no clear direction. Intentions act as your internal GPS, guiding you toward your desired outcome. Read How to Set Your Growth Intention.
Take Action Today
Ready to start hitting your goals with clarity and confidence?
Start by applying this 6-step journey today!
If you need more help visit CrushingDoubts for tools, templates, and coaching support.
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