From Setbacks to Comebacks: Revitalising Your 2025 Goals and intentions
Have you ever observed a bird tending to its nest? After laying its eggs, the bird
constantly adjusts the nest and repositions the eggs to ensure optimal conditions for
hatching. Similarly, when it comes to the goals and intentions that we set for
ourselves, it is essential to monitor our progress regularly and make necessary
adjustments.
As the new year unfolds, many of us start with enthusiasm, setting ambitious goals
and intentions. Speaking with friends and professional connections, I have noticed
that while some are diligently working towards their aspirations, others are
struggling or have even abandoned their plans. Life gets in the way and we are no
longer our priority.
Well Begun is Half Done
The adage “well begun is half done” reminds us that starting is only the first step.
Why, then, should we abandon something we began with so much passion and
intent? This article aims to inspire you to stay committed to your New Year goals and
intentions by sharing actionable steps to reflect, adjust, and progress towards your
aspirations. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to prioritise ourselves.
Step 1: Regularly Check Your Progress
Begin by evaluating your progress. Ask yourself: Am I moving towards my initial goals
as intended? If the answer is “yes,” congratulations—keep up the momentum! If the
answer is “no,” take a moment to reassess. Are your goals realistic and practical? If
not, consider adjusting them to align with current circumstances. Remember, it’s
okay to recalibrate; the key is to keep moving forward.
Step 2: Identify the Constraints
If you find yourself lagging or far from your original intentions, it’s time to identify
and understand the challenges and obstacles that are holding you back. Common
challenges include: Procrastination or laziness, Resistance to change,
Overcommitment or a packed schedule, Lack of alignment with core values, etc.
Conduct a root-cause analysis to pinpoint the exact issue. Identifying these challenges allows you to take corrective action. Additionally, evaluate whether your
goals align with your core values. If they don’t, this is the perfect opportunity to
adjust them for greater harmony and sustainability.
Step 3: Evaluate the Consequences of Inaction
Once you have identified the roadblocks (ask yourself what is preventing me?), think
about the potential losses of not achieving your goal. These losses may not always be
financial; they could include missed opportunities, stagnation in personal or
professional growth, declining health or fitness and strained relationships. Use this
awareness as a source of motivation. Visualise the benefits of achieving your goals
and let this vision reignite your drive. Modern tools and technologies, like reminder
apps or habit trackers, can also help keep you focused and motivated.
Step 4: Develop Micro-Habits for Sustained Progress
True growth and development are not instantaneous; they require consistent effort.
I am reminded of a story about a tourist visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, who asked a
local if any great personalities were born there. The local replied, “I don’t think so,
everyone born here was a baby, but they grew up to be big personalities like William
Shakespeare who was my neighbour.”
This anecdote reminds us that success is a gradual process. To ensure sustained
progress, focus on creating micro-habits that support your larger goals. For instance,
if your goal is to walk every morning, first build the habit of waking up early. If your
goal is to eat healthier, start by including one nutritious meal in your daily routine.
These small, consistent habits act as stepping stones to achieving your intentions.
The more micro-habits you develop, the stronger your foundation for success.
Step 5: Accountability/Language
Have an accountability buddy/partner that supports and encourages you when you
are struggling.
Write down your goals, studies show that people who wrote goals down, made a
plan, and enlisted friends to help them by sending regular progress reports
succeeded closer to 75% of the time.
Your inner voice, be aware of how you speak to yourself, use assertive language and
non-judgemental language. For example, the language I use is intentional and assertive i.e. ‘Today my intention is go to the gym at 6 pm’. Use clean, firm language.
Using language such as ‘if,’ ‘maybe’ and ‘might’ does not set you up for success.
Encouragement for the Year Ahead
The journey towards your goals will not always be smooth, but persistence and self-
discipline can make a significant difference. At Elaine Ryan & Associates Ltd, through
years of experience in NLP coaching and training, we’ve witnessed how these
qualities transform lives. Monitor your progress, tackle obstacles head-on, assess the
consequences of inaction, and develop micro-habits to support your growth. Above
all, remember that growth and success are not about perfection, they’re about
steady and determined progress.
Wishing you a year filled with achievements, growth, and lasting success
