It’s that time of year when we’re inundated with advice, programs, and tools promising to help us set and achieve goals as we step into a new year. But what if you’ve already been setting and achieving goals your whole life?
What if you could uncover and apply those skills with even greater intention? This post is about helping you overcome any overwhelm or guilt you might feel about goal setting and finding your rhythm. Goal setting doesn’t have to be complicated, and my journey proves it.
I’ve never been one to script specific goals, tasks, milestones, or timelines—surprising, I know, considering my work. While those structured approaches work for some, my path has been different. Simplicity, clarity, and focus have been key to achieving what matters to me—and these principles may help you create a path that works for you.
A Glimpse Into My Work-Life Journey
The Bicycle Courier at Age 12:
My professional journey began at 12, delivering mail for a courier company on my bike. I planned my downtown route to be as efficient as possible, aiming to finish before noon. I don’t remember what I earned, but I clearly remember the satisfaction of finding a system that worked.
The Baby Carrot Picker at Age 14-15:
Later, I worked in a farmer’s field picking baby carrots under the blazing sun. I had a goal: pick 12-14 bushels daily to make at least $40. To achieve it, I mastered the farmer’s technique and outpaced seasoned adults. This efficiency eventually landed me in the warehouse, where I sorted and packaged carrots for stores. It wasn’t glamorous, but I learned the value of adaptability and how to assess whether opportunities truly aligned with my goals.
In both scenarios, I didn’t need a fancy framework to succeed. Instead, I asked myself four key questions:
The Four Questions That Shaped My Success
1. What is motivating and meaningful to me right now?
- As a courier, it was finishing early to enjoy the rest of the day.
- As a carrot picker, it was earning enough money and avoiding sunburn.
2. What do I want to achieve?
- Efficiency in my deliveries.
- A clear goal of 12-14 bushels daily in the field.
3. How am I going to get there?
- Planning the most efficient delivery route.
- Mastering the technique for faster carrot picking.
4. How do I want to be rewarded?
- Free time and the satisfaction of a job well done.
- A decent paycheck and the added comfort of working in the warehouse.
Why These Questions Work
These questions are simple but powerful. They cut through the noise and help clarify focus, adapt to challenges, and stay motivated. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure where to begin, these questions can be a great starting point. They didn’t just apply to my childhood jobs—they’ve guided me throughout my career and life.
Your Turn: Create Your Path to Success
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of goal setting, start with these questions. They’re designed to be flexible and meet you where you are. Before diving into any project, initiative, or task, ask yourself:
1. What is motivating and meaningful to me right now?
2. What do I want to achieve?
3. How am I going to get there?
4. How do I want to be rewarded?
These questions can help you gain clarity and focus, creating energy and excitement for what’s ahead. Whether your goals are as simple as finishing your tasks early or as ambitious as achieving a major career milestone, you already have the tools within you to succeed. The key is to keep it simple and stay connected to what truly matters.
Instinctive Inspiration: Trust Your Journey
You’ve been setting and achieving goals your entire life, even if you didn’t call them goals at the time. Starting can feel daunting, especially if goal setting hasn’t been your strong suit, but you’re not alone.
Reflect on your past successes—what worked, what felt meaningful—and build from there. These four questions are a guide to uncovering strengths you already have and applying them with intention.
Take that first step, and let the clarity and focus you create carry you forward to a year that’s truly aligned with what matters most to you.
I'd love to hear about your experience! If you've tried my approach, share how it worked for you – or let me know what’s been successful for you in achieving what matters most. Your insights could inspire someone else to take that next step!