A lot of people only set big goals at the beginning of the year. Then, there are a few others that use their birthday as the start of a new year.
Both of these work, but there’s another time that’s great for goal setting.
And that time is right now. But there’s a reason why we tend to set goals around milestone dates like the new year or a birthday.
It’s because we like to break our lives down into smaller pieces. Years, Quarters, months and weeks. And you can’t forget how many new things start on Mondays!
The best time to set big goals
The best time to set your biggest goals is now. Whether it’s the start of a new year, a birthday, or simply a moment of inspiration, taking that first step towards your wildest dreams can create a powerful momentum for personal growth and achievement.
The new year
There is just something about setting specific goals for the next year that feels normal yet so inspiring.
It’s traditionally the right time for a fresh start, with a whole year ahead.
Use this time to reevaluate what you want out of life and start making steps to get there.
It’s a great time to take on a new habit goal, like quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol or getting into shape.
And for those of us in the southern hemisphere, it’s certainly a bit easier to get started on a new exercise regime while the weather is warmer and the days are longer.
So whether you set a bunch of New Year’s resolutions or choose a word of the year, the new year is a great time to take massive action.
Your birthday
Your birthday is also the start of a new year.
It’s the start of your new year.
So your birthday is a great time to set large goals especially when you are approaching a milestone birthday and need that extra push to take on an ambitious goal.
Some smart goals you might like to set around your birthday are:
- Run your first marathon/half marathon/5k/10k or other fitness goal
- Go sky diving
- Volunteer
- Perfect a recipe, dance routine or learn a new skill
- Get a drastic haircut or colour
- Learn a second language
- Travel to certain places
- Start your own business
You might even create a bucket list or 30 things to do before the end of your thirties.
Every Quarter
This might be one you might not have heard of.
But you may have heard of the book, The 12 Week Year by Brian Tracey.
At first thought, I thought this book was about putting in the hard work for 12 weeks of the year to have the remaining 9 months off.
But I was wrong.
The idea is that people overestimate what they can accomplish in a year. But underestimate what they can achieve in a shorter time frame.
One of my favourite goal setting tools uses the premise of the 12-week year. And I have to say, it works.
We mistakenly believe that there is a lot of time left in the year, and we act accordingly. We lack a sense of urgency, not realizing that every week is important, every day is important, every moment is important. Ultimately, effective execution happens daily and weekly!
― Brian Moran, The 12 Week Year
The 12 Week Year emphasizes the idea of breaking down a bigger goal into smaller goals and micro goals within 12-week cycles.
By setting shorter deadlines for specific tasks, you create a sense of urgency and clarity, allowing for more consistent progress and achievement. This approach encourages stepping out of your comfort zone and encourages continuous personal development. This makes it an excellent strategy for achieving your next big goal and helping you reach your full potential.
Right now
There is no time like the present when it comes to setting some personal goals to work towards. You don’t need to wait until the new year, a birthday, or any other specific time throughout the year. If you want to start making changes there is no better time than now.
I’m sure you’ve heard this quote before:
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.
Chinese proverb
This proverb highlights the importance of taking action immediately rather than delaying your dreams and aspirations. Creating a list of life goals right now means you’re already on the path to achieving them. By focusing on having a growth mindset and stepping out of your comfort zone, you’ll find a renewed sense of accomplishment and motivation to tackle your ambitious goal. Don’t let the perfect moment pass you by—embrace the present and start working towards your ultimate goal today.
But really, the best time to set the right goals for the best results is during a psychologically significant transition point. Which gives you the “fresh start effect”. Or as Gretchen Ruben calls in it her book, Better Than Before, the strategy of the clean slate.
There are a few other times in your life that can give you the push you need to start working towards your long-term goals.
- When you have more free time (extended holidays, job loss, children starting school, empty nest)
- When you are feeling low
- When you need a change
- At the end of an era (school or university finishes, moving house, changing jobs)
- After achieving a goal, jump right back in!
Setting big goals can transform your life, providing direction, motivation, and a sense of purpose.
By stepping out of your comfort zone and committing to your aspirations, you’ll find that the journey itself is just as rewarding as the destination.
Embrace the path of personal development, and remember that the only limit to what you can achieve is the extent of your vision and determination.
