Background
We’ve all set goals at some point—whether at the beginning of the year, on your birthday, or after hearing a motivational message.
You write them down. You get excited.
But after a few weeks… life happens.
The motivation fades. The list gathers dust. And you begin to wonder if you’ll ever follow through.
Sound familiar?
Friend, setting goals is easy. Sticking with them is the real challenge.
But the truth is—it’s possible to set goals that actually work. Goals that align with your purpose. Goals you’re excited to pursue. Goals you can look back on one day and say, “By God’s grace, I did it.”
Let’s walk through how to do just that.
1. Connect Your Goals to Your Purpose
If your goal doesn’t connect to your values, it won’t last.
Ask yourself:
- Why do I want this?
- Does this align with who God is calling me to be?
- Will this move me closer to my calling or distract me?
Your goals should reflect your assignment, not just your ambition.
For example:
- Don’t just aim to “make more money”—aim to “build a sustainable business that solves problems and blesses others.”
- Don’t just say “lose weight”—say “care for my body so I can serve God with strength and energy.”
When your goals have meaning, discipline becomes easier—even on the hard days.
2. Set Goals That Are S.M.A.R.T
You’ve likely heard this before, but it works.
S.M.A.R.T goals are:
- Specific: Be clear about what you want.
- Measurable: Know how you’ll track your progress.
- Achievable: Be realistic based on your season.
- Relevant: Align with your values and priorities.
- Time-bound: Set a deadline or timeline.
For example:
❌ “I want to save money.”
✅ “I want to save ₦100,000 by December to start my tailoring business.”
This gives your goal structure, direction, and focus.
3. Break Big Goals Into Small Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming.
The key is to break them down into bite-sized actions.
Let’s say your goal is to publish a book.
Break it down like this:
- Month 1: Finalise outline
- Month 2: Write chapter one
- Month 3: Write two more chapters
- Month 4: Edit and review
- Month 5: Design cover and prepare for launch
Small steps help you stay consistent.
And consistency builds momentum.
You can also use a free 21-Day Habit Tracker to stay on track.
4. Write It Down and Keep It Visible
There’s something powerful about writing your goals down.
It moves them from wishful thinking into intentional planning.
“Write the vision, and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.” – Habakkuk 2:2
Put your goals where you’ll see them:
- On your wall
- In your journal
- As your phone wallpaper
- In a planner or app like Notion
When your goals are visible, they stay on your heart—and you’re more likely to act on them.
5. Pray Over Your Goals
Before you run with a goal, pause and pray.
Ask:
- “Lord, is this Your will for me in this season?”
- “Give me grace and wisdom to pursue this goal with purpose.”
- “If this is not for me, close the door.”
Not every good idea is a God idea.
You need spiritual clarity—especially for goals around career, relationships, business, or ministry.
Let God lead the way, not just your excitement.
6. Choose Discipline Over Motivation
Motivation is like a visitor.
It shows up sometimes—but not always.
If you wait to feel motivated, you’ll stay stuck.
Instead, build discipline—doing what you committed to, even when you don’t feel like it.
Create habits, not hype:
- Set reminders
- Use timers or alarms
- Start small, and build momentum
- Show up on tough days
- Rest when needed, but don’t quit
Need help with discipline? Read this: The Habit That Changes Everything: Discipline
7. Track Your Progress
What gets tracked gets improved.
Each week, reflect:
- What did I complete this week?
- What did I struggle with?
- What needs to change moving forward?
This helps you adjust your approach and celebrate progress—even the little wins.
Tools you can use:
- Google Sheets or Notion
- Journaling
- Printable progress charts
- Accountability partner check-ins
Don’t underestimate the power of small wins. They build your confidence and remind you that you’re moving forward.
8. Anticipate Obstacles and Plan Ahead
Obstacles are part of the process.
Expect them. Don’t be surprised by them.
Instead of saying:
- “If I get stuck, I’ll give up…”
Say:
- “If I get stuck, I’ll take a break and restart.”
- “If I miss a day, I’ll pick up the next.”
- “If I feel discouraged, I’ll talk to a mentor.”
Create backup plans. Create flexibility. But don’t stop showing up.
9. Celebrate Your Milestones
Celebrate progress. Not just the final goal, but the journey itself.
Finished your first blog post? Celebrate.
Made your first sale? Thank God and share the testimony.
Reached a mini saving goal? Treat yourself modestly.
Celebration gives you joy. And joy gives you strength to keep going.
Even in spiritual goals—like fasting or devotional time—track growth and give God praise for every step forward.
Final Note
Friend, setting goals is not just about making a list—it’s about becoming the person God has called you to be.
You can dream big. You can follow through. You can stay consistent.
But it starts with:
- Clarity
- Prayer
- Planning
- Discipline
- And grace
You’re not doing it alone. God is with you.
So write that vision. Break it down. Start small. Keep going.
And when you look back in a few months, you’ll smile and say, “I didn’t just set goals. I lived them.”
What You Can Do Next
- Comment below: What goal are you working on right now?
- Share this post with a friend who needs clarity and consistency
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