A Thoughtful Alternative to New Year’s Resolutions

The new year is often a time for reflection on the year behind us and hope for the year ahead. It's a natural pause point; a chance to look at what went well, what didn't, and what we want more of moving forward.

Every year, my family gathers to do just that. Together, we create lists for the year that is ending. One list focuses on the positives: meaningful experiences, accomplishments we're proud of, movies we loved, and moments that brought joy. Another list captures the dislikes: odd trends, missed opportunities, and things we're ready to leave behind. We also take time to set goals for both the next year and the next five years.

As I've gotten older, this tradition has become both insightful and amusing. We started this practice when I was a kid, and looking back at old lists is a reminder of how much changes and how much stays the same. It's interesting to see goals I've completed, ones that evolved, and others that no longer fit who I am. My likes and dislikes have shifted over the years, but the act of reflecting has remained grounding.

After reviewing our past lists, we intentionally look ahead. Reflection gives context to goal setting and helps ensure that new goals are aligned with who we are, rather than who we think we should be.

Why Setting Goals Matters

Setting goals gives direction to our time and energy. Without them, it's easy to move through the year on autopilot, reacting to circumstances rather than intentionally shaping our lives. Goals help turn values into action and provide a sense of purpose and momentum.

When goals are clearly defined, they can:

• Increase motivation and focus

• Improve motivation and focus

• Improve follow-through and accountability

• Build confidence through visible progress

• Support habit formation and lasting change

• Create a sense of structure in an overwise busy life

The effectiveness of a goal, however, depends largely on how it's created.

Turning My Goal into a SMART Goal

One of my personal goals for the upcoming year is to read more. Reading is something I genuinely enjoy and value, but it's also something that tends to get pushed aside when life gets busy. Naming it as a goal helps me prioritize it rather than waiting for "extra time" to appear.

To make this goal more realistic and achievable, I use the SMART framework: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

My goal is to read six books in 2026.

• Specific: The goal clearly states what I want to do-read new books.

• Measurable: Progress is easy to track: six books.

• Achievable: One book every other month feels realistic, even with a full schedule.

• Relevant: Reading aligns with my values of continued learning, personal growth, and engaging in meaningful activities.

• Time-bound: The goal has a clear endpoint-by the end of the year.

Using this framework transforms a general intention into a clear path. It reduces overwhelm and increases the likelihood that the goal will actually happen.

Moving Into the New Year with Intention

Reflection helps us understand where we've been, while goal setting helps us decide where we're going. When goals are intentional and realistic, they become tools for growth rather than sources of pressure.

As the new year approaches, consider taking time to reflect-not only on what you want to chance, but also on what you want to continue, nurture, and celebrate. Meaningful chance often begins quietly, with clarity, intention, and one well-defined goal at a time.