Why You Shouldn't Set New Goals
And what I recommend doing instead.
As we step into this last week of the year, I hope you’re finding a few quiet moments to reflect, breathe deeply, and enjoy the space between what’s ending and what’s beginning. With New Year’s Day just around the corner, it’s that time when everyone’s buzzing about resolutions, big goals, and starting fresh. Maybe you’ve already made your list of things you’re determined to start—or stop—doing in 2025.
But can I share a different perspective?
I don’t think you should set new goals (hear me out).
We’ve all been there: You set big, ambitious resolutions on January 1st—this is the year you’ll run five days a week, stop procrastinating, or finally quit sugar. It feels exciting at first, but by mid-January, reality sets in. Life gets busy, motivation fades, and those goals start feeling out of reach.
The result?
Frustration, guilt, and a sense that you’ve fallen short.
But what if you didn’t have to put that kind of pressure on yourself this year? What if you could create momentum for the new year without the stress of overhauling your life?
Here’s my invitation to you:
Instead of focusing on what you need to start or stop, double down on what’s already working for you.
Most people approach the new year in one of two ways:
They try to START something completely new.
Big goals sound inspiring, but they often overlook the reality of your life and habits. Starting something from scratch can be tough and unsustainable.
They try to STOP something entirely.
While quitting a bad habit or making a dramatic lifestyle change can feel empowering, it often creates a sense of restriction or overwhelm—and one slip-up can feel like a total failure.
Both approaches rely heavily on willpower and motivation, which tend to run low in the cold, busy months after the holidays.
A Better Way: Build on What’s Already Working
Here’s what I’ve found in my own life.
The resolutions that actually stick are the ones that build on the momentum I already have.
For example, a couple of small habits made a huge difference for me:
Exercising regularly gave me more energy and helped me stay grounded mentally.
Going to bed at 9 p.m. was a game-changer for my clarity and focus.
As I look toward 2025, I’m not setting a long list of new goals. I’m committing to do more of what’s already working. I’ll keep prioritizing movement and protecting my early bedtime because I’ve seen the value they bring to my life.
No major overhauls. No trying to reinvent myself. Just adding fuel to the fire that’s already burning.
Look, if you have new goals you want to pursue, that’s great. Go after them. But in addition, give yourself a leg up by maximizing what’s already working for you.
How to Maximize What’s Working in 2025
Identify Your Wins:
What habits, routines, or choices have brought value to your life? What’s made you feel more joyful, grounded, or at peace? Write down 2–3 specific examples.
Commit to Building on Them:
Look for ways to take these wins a step further. Ask yourself, “How can I add to this?"
If morning walks have helped your energy, could you add 10 extra minutes, explore new routes, or invite a friend to join?
If journaling has given you clarity, could you make it a 10-minute daily practice instead of once a week?
If family dinners have been meaningful, could you make them screen-free or start a gratitude-sharing tradition?
Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection:
You don’t have to do it perfectly. Even small steps forward are worth celebrating. Building on what’s working is far more sustainable than starting something completely new—and it leads to more consistent growth.
You’ve already planted seeds of growth in 2024.
As we move into 2025, the best way forward isn’t to start over or try to fix everything at once. It’s to nurture those seeds, keep watering them, and watch them flourish.
Here’s to a year of growth, joy, and leaning into what’s already good in your life.
Warmly,
Mike Foster
P.S. If this idea resonates with you, I’d love to hear what you’re focusing on in 2025. Hit reply and share your wins from this past year—I’m cheering you on as you double down on what’s working!