Why Most Goals Fail (and How to Do It Differently)
If you’ve ever set a New Year’s resolution only to abandon it by February, you’re not alone. Research suggests that 80% of goals fail within the first two months. The problem isn’t you—it’s the way most people set goals.
We focus on what we should do instead of what truly matters. We create vague resolutions or pile on too many ambitions at once. No wonder we give up.
This guide will show you how to set purpose-driven, practical goals that actually stick.
Step 1 – Discover Your Purpose Before You Set Goals
Before you set a single goal, pause. Ask: Why does this matter to me?
Your purpose is the compass that keeps your goals aligned with what you value most. Without it, even “successful” goals can feel hollow.
Quick exercise:
- Write down your top five personal values (e.g., health, freedom, family, growth, contribution).
- Circle the two that matter most right now.
- Set goals that serve these values.
➡️ Related: The Think-Feel-Act Cycle and Happiness
Step 2 – Choose the Right Goal Setting Framework
Frameworks help structure your goals so they’re clear and actionable. Three popular ones:
- SMART Goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.
- K.I.S.S. Method – Keep It Simple, Stupid (or “Simple” if you prefer)—ideal if you tend to overcomplicate.
- HEART Goals – Honest, Energising, Aligned, Realistic, Time-framed.
👉 Start simple. If you want a straightforward method, try The K.I.S.S. Method for Goal Setting.
Step 3 – Break Big Goals into Small, Actionable Steps
Big goals are exciting—but without small steps, they stay dreams.
Example:
- Big goal: Run 5km without stopping.
- Milestones: 1km → 3km → 5km.
- Daily steps: Run 2 minutes, walk 1 minute, repeat.
Think in terms of systems rather than just outcomes. Author James Clear puts it well: “You don’t rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.”
Step 4 – Build Accountability and Stay Motivated
Motivation comes and goes—systems keep you moving. But accountability gives you extra fuel.
Personally, I review my progress toward my goals every Saturday. I make a quick bullet point list of what I’ve done toward each goal since the last review. Sometimes I feel like I’m not making any progress but doing this step shows me how much I have actually achieved.
Next, I brainstorm a list of 4 or 5 things I could do.
Then, I choose 1 or 2 things I will do over the next week.
This keeps me motivated and moving forwards.
Here are some options you might want to try:
- Keep a journal – like me or in your own style.
- Use a habit tracker (digital or paper).
- Share goals with a friend, coach, or group. Follow up discussions are great for accountability.
📥 Download my free Purposeful Goal Setting Worksheet to get a printable tracker and reflection guide (see opt-in below).
Step 5 – Review and Reset Regularly
Life changes. Your goals should too.
Set a reminder to check in weekly or monthly.
When I do my goal review each week there are times when I shift my focus and decide to change, re-schedule or even delete a goal if it’s not working out for me. It can be useful to journal on the reasons why as well.
- What worked?
- What didn’t?
- What’s the next step?
This reflection prevents the “all-or-nothing” trap. You don’t fail when you adjust—you fail when you stop.
Common Goal Setting Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t fall into these traps:
- Setting too many goals at once – I have a tendency to do this. It usually follows that progress is stalled on some and it can become disheartening and demotivating. I’ve learnt to focus on fewer.
- Making vague goals (“be healthier”).
- Forgetting to set deadlines.
- Focusing only on outcomes, not process – journaling about what you have done when you review your goals helps with this.
Goal Setting Example in Action
Purpose: Improve health and confidence.
Framework: SMART goal.
Big Goal: Lose 5kg in 12 weeks.
Steps:
- Walk 8,000 steps daily.
- Cook 5 home meals per week.
- Track progress every Sunday.
This goal is aligned with purpose, broken down into actions, and supported by accountability.
Final Thoughts: Goals Are Tools, Not Shackles
Your goals are meant to support you, not restrict you. They should help you live more purposefully, not keep you chained to a checklist.
For more practical guidance:
📥 Free Resource: Download Your Purposeful Goal Setting Worksheet
This printable worksheet will help you clarify your purpose, set meaningful goals, and track progress.
- How to Find Your Core Values (and Why They Matter for Goal Setting) - October 14, 2025
- SMART vs HEART Goals: Which Framework Works Best for You? - October 7, 2025
- Goal Setting with Purpose: The Ultimate Guide to Goals That Stick - September 30, 2025
