How to Finish the Year Strong with Goal Setting: A Reflection on Goals, Motivation, and Achievement

As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the goals we set at the beginning of the year. Whether these were personal, professional, or a mix of both, the final stretch can often feel overwhelming. However, finishing the year strong is not about setting new goals; it’s about revisiting, refining, and reconnecting with the ones we've already set.

The Importance of Revisiting Goals

Goal setting is more than just writing down what you want to achieve. Studies on goal-setting theory, particularly those led by Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, have shown that specific and challenging goals lead to higher performance. Yet, the key to success lies not just in setting these goals but in revisiting them regularly.

Why? Because life happens. Circumstances change, and so do we. A goal that felt vital in January might not hold the same weight in September. This is where the concept of revisiting your "why" becomes essential.

Reconnect with Your Why

When we set goals, we often do so with a sense of purpose. We have a reason, a deep “why” that fuels our motivation. But as time passes, that connection can fade. Maybe the initial excitement has worn off, or perhaps new challenges have arisen that make your goal seem out of reach.

This is where reflection becomes crucial. Ask yourself:

• Why did I set this goal in the first place?

• What was driving me when I first committed to this?

• Has something changed in my life, my priorities, or my mindset that makes this goal feel less important?

  
  

Reflecting on these questions can reignite your motivation. If you find yourself disconnected from the goal, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’ve grown. Understanding why a goal no longer resonates is a victory in itself because it allows you to refocus on what truly matters now.

When Goals Need Adjusting

Let’s say you’re still connected to the essence of the goal, but achieving it feels daunting. That’s when it’s time to reassess how you’ll achieve it. Psychologist Albert Bandura’s self-efficacy theory emphasizes that belief in our ability to achieve a goal directly impacts our success. If a goal feels too large or unattainable, break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks. Adjusting a goal doesn’t mean giving up on it; it means making it achievable.

For example, if your goal was to run a half marathon by the end of the year but you’re far from being able to complete the distance, start by reassessing the specific actions needed to get there. Instead of focusing on the entire 21.1 km, break it down into smaller, achievable milestones:

1. Assess Your Current Fitness Level: If you’re struggling with longer distances, check where you stand now. Can you comfortably run 5 km? 8 km? Identify your starting point.

2. Create a Weekly Running Plan: Break down the goal into weekly distance increases. For example, start with running 5 km for the first week, then increase it by 1 km each week. Gradually build up your endurance over time.

3. Incorporate Cross-Training for Strength: Improving your running isn’t just about running. Include strength training in your routine, focusing on leg muscles, core, and overall stability to enhance your performance.

4. Set Mini Goals: Establish milestones, like running 10 km by the end of the month or 15 km by the next. These smaller goals help you celebrate progress while keeping your ultimate target in sight.

5. Evaluate and Adjust: If you’re finding it difficult to hit these milestones, reassess. Can you tweak your training routine? Maybe include more rest days, or mix in different types of cardio to build your stamina.

By breaking the larger goal into smaller, actionable steps, you can make the overall target more achievable and stay motivated as you see yourself progress.

Embrace Change and Adaptability

Adaptability is key. Just because a goal was important once doesn’t mean it always will be. Being adaptable and open to changing your goals is a strength, not a weakness. If something no longer aligns with your values or current reality, allow yourself to adjust. Sometimes, letting go of a goal is the best way to finish the year strong.

As James Clear writes in Atomic Habits, progress is often the result of small, consistent actions. It's not about grand gestures but about doing a little bit each day that moves you closer to your goal.

Key Takeaways to Finish Strong:

1. Revisit your goals frequently – Don’t set and forget. Revisit them throughout the year to stay connected.

2. Reconnect with your “why” – Reflect on why these goals were important and whether they still align with your values.

3. Adapt and adjust – Be willing to modify your goals to make them achievable or more aligned with who you are today.

4. Focus on small wins – Progress is made in small, consistent steps. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how minor.

Finishing the year strong doesn’t mean starting fresh or setting new, ambitious goals. It’s about revisiting and reflecting, understanding your motivation, and adjusting your goals as needed. This process of reflection not only sets you up for success now but also builds a solid foundation for the year ahead.

Join Our Reflecting & Goal Setting Workshop to Finish the Year Strong!

Are you ready to reflect on your goals, reconnect with your "why," and finish the year with purpose? Join our Reflecting & Goal Setting Workshop, where you'll receive expert guidance, actionable strategies, and the tools you need to make your goals a reality before the year ends.

P.S.: If you haven't already, I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn @stephanienguyenofficial and Instagram @masterofachievement