Goal setting for a happier 2026

January arrives with its familiar expectations: resolutions, resets, reinventions. New year, new you. Veganuary. Dry January. The gym membership you'll definitely use this time.

We've been sold the idea that transformation has a calendar date, that change only counts when it starts on 1st January. But here's what nobody tells you about fresh starts: they're available every single day, and the best ones? They rarely happen when everyone else is watching.

So how do you set goals that actually stick, without the January pressure?

Tips for successful goal setting...

Reconnect with your 'why' - spend some time thinking about why you got into this career. What is or are the reasons that you are working in the field you are? Write down your purpose and the 'why' behind your work. It can be anything from family to travel freedom.

Think about how you want to feel, not just what you want to do. Goals are, of course, about tangible results and practical things, but they're also about the 'feels'. If you want a new client, is that about feeling valued? Want to work more flexibly? Perhaps that's also about feeling more in control.

Consider short and long term goals - yes, the big stuff is important (new clients, write that book) but the small things matter too. The day-to-day things, such as keeping your office tidier, or sending invoices on time, or perhaps joining in more with a community...

Tools to embrace goal setting...

A Filofax: Yes, it's retro, no it's not digital. But it can really create some magic to get your thoughts and goal setting down on paper.

Canva: I use Canva for everything from presentations to banners. You could, with goal setting in mind, use it to make a vision board, too. Vision boards are part of goal setting as they take your goals to a place of commitment. Once it's on the board, it's a goal!

WhatsApp: I often make a WhatsApp note if I'm out and about - it is a good way to get the thoughts out and means you don't forget that amazing idea.