How Do You Plan Your Goals? (Without Accidentally Planning Your Nap Instead)

How do you plan your goals?

Let’s be honest.
Goal planning sounds so serious that half the time, we just avoid it.
We’ll say things like:

> “I’ll start tomorrow.”
Or
“I’m manifesting success by… thinking about it while watching Netflix.”

But goals are like plants — if you don’t water them, they die.
And if you water them too much (overthinking), they drown.
So here’s the real guide to planning your goals .

Step 1: Start with the “Why”… Not the “How”

Before you decide you want to lose weight, earn a million dollars, or learn the bagpipes (you brave soul), ask yourself:

Why do I want this?

Will this make me happy or just make me look cool on Instagram?

Is this something I’m doing for me, or to impress Karen from accounting?


Your why is like the battery in your phone. Without it, nothing else works—except maybe the calculator app, but that won’t get you far.

Step 2: Break It Down (Like a 90s Dance Move)

A big goal can feel like trying to eat a whole watermelon in one bite. Don’t do that. Cut it into small slices.

Want to write a book? Start with a chapter. Or a page. Or a sentence. Or even just the title.

Want to run a marathon? Start with walking. To the fridge. Then maybe around the block.


Small wins build momentum. And momentum is like rolling down a hill… except you’re aiming for success, not a tree.

Step 3: Make It Visible

Your brain loves reminders. Post your goals somewhere you’ll see them daily—on your fridge, your mirror, your phone wallpaper.
Warning: If you live with others, prepare for comments like:

> “Why is ‘Learn Spanish’ written on the bathroom mirror?”
“Because I want my reflection to say hola back.”

Step 4: Plan for Failure (Yes, Really)

Life happens. You’ll skip days, mess up, or forget. That’s fine. The key is to expect those moments and bounce back like a cartoon character after an anvil drop.
Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of the package. Like fries with a burger. Or regret with online shopping.

Step 5: Celebrate the Weird Way

Don’t wait until the big goal is done to celebrate. Reward yourself for tiny victories along the way. Did you drink water instead of soda today? Victory dance in the kitchen. Did you finish a tough workout? Eat cake. (I don’t make the rules.)

Step 6: Keep It Human

Your goals aren’t just checkboxes—they’re part of your story. And the best stories have ups, downs, plot twists, and comic relief. Remember to laugh at yourself. Sometimes, the road to your dreams will be a mess. But messy roads still get you there.

Final Thought:

Planning your goals is like planning a road trip. You need a destination, a map, snacks, and the willingness to take detours. Because sometimes the best part of the journey isn’t arriving—it’s the ridiculous stuff that happens on the way.

So… how do you plan your goals? If your answer is “I don’t,” congratulations—you’re already halfway to making one.