This super-simple goal-setting method will set you up for success

Simple: by setting smaller goals that ladder up. Focusing on the task you need to do to reach your goal, rather than on just the goal itself, increases the likelihood you’ll be successful over time. And you’ll build healthy habits along the way!

1. Knowing what we want to accomplish long-term is great, but it doesn’t show us how to actually get there.

2. Focusing only on the outcome can lead to an “at any cost” approach, making it unlikely to build healthy habits that’ll last.

3. Setting behavioural goals focused on what you want to do increases the likelihood you’ll be successful, which helps build confidence. (Which leads to more success!)

This week’s technique

Prioritize setting a weekly behavioural goal. Use the STAR principle to make it...

1. Specific. Start by being really clear on what you want to do, and the details of how you’ll accomplish it. Want to go for a run twice a week? Plan which days you’ll do it, where you’ll go, and who might join you.

2. Truly doable. It’s important to be realistic about what you can actually accomplish. If you know weeknights are nuts for you, carve out time on Sunday for running. When you’re set up for success, it’s more likely you’ll complete (and repeat!) your goal.

3. Active. It’s much easier to focus on doing something rather than on stopping something. (“I want to run” versus “I want to stop skipping a workout.”) This thought process helps you picture what you’re trying to achieve.

4. Relevant. Goals should be about what you want to do, not what you think you should do. Does running move you toward something larger that you truly want to achieve? If so, that’ll make it extra meaningful—and powerful—in your day-to-day life.