The 5 Ways to Make This Year Different: Simplifying Goal Setting to Create Real Momentum
Thank you to Clay & Vine Interiors for sponsoring this episode. Jamie has helped us transform a couple different rooms in our home — from my office shelves to our lower level — and each project has brought more warmth, ease, and “this finally feels like us” energy into our space. She evolved our space in a way that really fits our family. Check out Clay & Vine interior design services here.
If you’re listening to this episode and thinking, I want to do this differently this year, I created something to help.
👉 Be sure to subscribe here for the free 12 Week Year Companion Worksheet:
www.mollyasplin.com/subscribe
This worksheet walks you step-by-step through reflection, vision, and goal-setting using the 12 Week Year framework we talk about in today’s episode.
Why Goal Setting Feels So Hard (Especially for High Performers)
You’re Not the Problem — The Process Is
Every January, I see capable, driven people put enormous pressure on themselves to plan an entire year in a matter of days. Vision boards, resolutions, fresh planners — all layered on top of an already full life.
If goal setting has ever left you feeling overwhelmed, behind, or discouraged, I want you to hear this clearly: you are not the problem. The traditional approach to goal setting is.
High performers don’t need more motivation. They need clarity, direction, and a framework that fits real life — not one that creates pressure and burnout.
The First Way to Make This Year Different: Stop Annualized Thinking
Why 12-Month Goals Kill Momentum
A year is simply too long to stay engaged. When goals feel far away, urgency disappears, and procrastination creeps in.
That’s why vague goals like “be healthier” or “get more sleep” rarely stick. They sound good, but they’re not defined, measurable, or actionable. Most people don’t fail because they lack discipline — they fail because the process is unclear.
The Second Way to Make This Year Different: Reflect Before You Set Goals
Don’t Skip the Step That Creates Clarity
Reflection is the most overlooked part of goal setting — and the most important. Be sure to listen to Episode 228 if you haven’t already.
Before you move forward, ask yourself:
- What looked good but didn’t feel good?
- What drained me this year?
- What gave me energy?
- What do I not want to repeat?
Reflection gives context. It helps you stop repeating cycles and making the same goals year after year.
The Third Way to Make This Year Different: Create Vision Before Goals
Goals Without Vision Become Another To-Do List
Goals without vision turn into obligations. Vision connects your goals to how you want to feel, not just what you want to accomplish.
Ask yourself:
- What do I want more of this year?
- What do I want less of?
- What key priorities would act as a catalyst for everything else?
The Fourth Way to Make This Year Different: Use the 12 Week Year Framework
Shorter Timeframes Create Better Execution
Instead of thinking in 12 months, I use the 12 Week Year. This is a concept I learned years ago in the book, The 12 Week Year. I have found the concepts to be hugely insightful.
A year becomes 12 weeks.
A month becomes a week.
A week becomes today.
You focus on one to three meaningful goals and break them into clear, time-bound actions. This creates urgency, clarity, and momentum — without burnout.
The Fifth Way to Make This Year Different: Commit to Actions, Not Just Intentions
Actions Create Confidence & Progress
Commitment to the actions (even if they are small) is everything. Progress compounds and gives you validation that you are moving in the right direction.
You can’t control outcomes, but you can control your actions. Daily and weekly commitments — even small ones — compound over time.
Greatness isn’t built at the finish line. It’s built quietly, through consistent execution, long before results show up.
A Final Reminder
You do not need to have your entire year figured out.
You just need clarity on the next 12 weeks:
- Reflect honestly
- Create a clear vision
- Choose one to three priorities
- Commit to consistent action
Progress doesn’t come from pressure. It comes from clarity, alignment, and follow-through.
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