How to Actually Crush Your 2026 Goals

Goal: Define What You're Actually Trying to Achieve

Get Specific and Concrete

• Avoid vague goals like "stop procrastinating" or "start a YouTube channel" that lack clear endpoints
• Attach numbers to your goals whenever possible to create measurable targets
• Define exactly what success looks like rather than using abstract concepts like "financial freedom"
• Example: Instead of "get fit," specify "reduce visceral fat levels by 50%"

Identify Your Compelling Why

• Choose intrinsically motivated reasons rather than external pressures like status or obligation
• Connect goals to meaningful outcomes that genuinely matter to you personally
• Understand that intrinsic motivation leads to both higher achievement rates and greater enjoyment of the process

Set Your Anti-Goals

• Define what you want to avoid while pursuing your goal
• Establish constraints that protect other important areas of your life
• Example: "I don't want to work weekends" or "I won't sacrifice family time"

Plan: Create Your Roadmap to Success

Identify Three to Five Major Moves

• List the specific actions that will actually get you to your goal
• Focus on high-impact activities rather than busywork
• Example for fat loss: Track 10,000 steps daily, consume 150g protein, stay under 2,200 calories, complete three zone-2 cardio sessions weekly, perform three progressive overload weight training sessions

Test Your Plan's Viability

• Ask "Will this work in theory?" - If you followed the plan perfectly, would you reach your goal?
• Ask "Will I actually do this?" - Rate the likelihood you'll stick to this plan
• Rethink any component scoring below 80% on either question

Use the Crystal Ball Method

• Imagine you failed to achieve your goal and identify the top three reasons why
• Create specific solutions for each potential obstacle before you start
• Example: If overeating is a risk, commit to tracking calories in MyFitnessPal

System: Build Mechanisms for Consistency

Implement Progress Tracking

• Monitor your progress daily or weekly using spreadsheets, apps, or journals
• Research shows people who track are significantly more likely to achieve their goals
• Make tracking visible through tools like Google Sheets, fitness apps, or habit trackers

Create Goal Reminders

• Write down your goals to increase achievement likelihood by 42%
• Review goals daily through journaling or weekly review sessions
• Use calendar blocks to schedule specific actions related to your goals
• Set up visual reminders like vision boards as desktop wallpapers

Establish Accountability Systems

• Find an accountability partner or squad to check in with regularly
• Join structured programs that include built-in accountability mechanisms
• Use apps with accountability features that send reminders and track commitments
• Schedule regular check-ins where you report progress to someone else