So, I realize we’re half way through January, and I’m just now posting my goals for 2020, but better late than never, right?
Can I let you in on a secret? This is the first time I’ve actually set new years goals in a formal way. I tend to be a free spirit, and I always felt like setting goals was too constricting for me. But, I’ve learned over the last few years that goal-setting is actually very mentally healthy for me. I can see my progress and growth and that motivates me to be better.

progress not perfection
With new years goals, it’s helpful for me to remember that it’s not about sticking to a list perfectly for a year. Rather, it’s about improving and moving forward from where I started.
It’s all about progress not perfection.
review your goals
To reach your goals for 2020 it’s helpful to review them at the beginning of each month and every week. When you review them, set smaller, bite-sized goals for each week to make progress.
SMART goals
In nursing school we learned about the acrostic SMART for a guide to setting goals.
- S – specific
- M – measurable
- A – achievable
- R – realistic
- T – time oriented
For example, I have a personal goal to read 12 books this year. My monthly goal would be to pick a specific book for the month, and my weekly goal would be to read one hour each night before bed.

2020 planner
In general, I’m not an organized person, but something that has drastically changed how I stay organized and reach my goals is a good planner. Do whatever works best for you whether it’s the calendar on your phone, computer, or an old school planner.
For me, having a tangible paper planner works best, because I am very visual. I like stickers, pretty colors, and fun pens, so it makes the planning experience more fun for me! I finally found one that I really like called 52 Lists Planner. I’ll link it here so you can check it out!
goals for 2020
I set goals for seven areas of my life. I found it easier to break it down this way so it doesn’t look like so much.
personal
- read 12 books
- take a baking class
- coffee once a month with a friend
- cook at home 3-4 nights a week
financial
- pay off our Ford Fiesta
- monthly budget reviews
- weekly meal planning
- cash flow Christmas gifts
- cash flow Christmas tickets
- create a ‘mama-bear’ will
- life insurance for Jordan
mental
- develop a positive relationship with food through intuitive eating
- develop a positive relationship with exercise
- relax once a week with a hobby (yoga, watercolors, bath, etc.)
physical
- develop a positive view of my body
- work on healing acne
- eat primarily clean/unprocessed foods
spiritual
- practice contentment
- study through 6 books of the bible
career
- study one disease process per month
- start deliveries by the end of the year
marriage
- write a note of encouragement once a week
- monthly date night
- read a marriage book
What are your goals for 2020 and how do you stay motivated to reach them? Comment below!

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