I teach SMART goal setting. I talk about goals all the time. So why does goal setting still feel hard?
If you’ve asked yourself the same thing, you’re not alone. The reality is that crafting meaningful, motivating goals takes more time and effort than we expect. Even for those of us who love setting goals, the goals we set still take a lot of time to fully take shape and feel dialed in.
That’s why Madeleine Homan Blanchard’s recent webinar, Breaking the Goal-Setting Barrier, resonated so deeply with me. She pulls back the curtain on why goal setting isn’t always a slam dunk, even for experienced professionals.
It’s a humbling reality: we often assume we’ll remember our goals, but unless we write them down or put them somewhere visible, they can quickly fade into the background and get lost in the day-to-day. Whether they’re in a notes app, framed on your desk, on a sticky note by your door, or tacked to a bulletin board, the key is to place your goals where you’ll see them every day and keep them top of mind. Why? Because life moves fast—and without a tangible reminder, even our most important intentions can be overshadowed by daily tasks and distractions. At least that’s what I’ve learned through my own trial and error.
The Hidden Challenge of Goal Setting
For those of us who have been setting goals for years, there’s another reality at play: we forget how much effort it takes. We assume the process will be easier than it is, fail to revise them, and then feel frustrated when momentum slows down. On the other hand, those newer to goal setting may struggle to visualize success, underestimate the concentration required, or feel unsure that all the work will pay off.
The truth? Goal setting is an iterative process. It requires refining, revising, and adjusting along the way. That’s why taking ownership of your goals is key—whether you set them yourself or they were delegated to you. If your goals don’t feel clear or motivating, take the time to define them, add meaning, and ensure there’s a plan to achieve them that can evolve as needed.
A Simple Shift: This or Something Better
One of the biggest reasons people resist setting clear goals is fear: fear of limiting themselves. Fear that if they define a specific outcome, they might miss out on something even better. But Madeleine Blanchard shares a simple mindset shift that is incredibly freeing:
At the end of your goal, write: “This or something better.”
This small add-on removes the pressure of locking yourself in and keeps you open to unexpected opportunities. It’s a powerful way to stay committed to progress while allowing room for growth.
Take Action Now
If goal setting feels harder than you think it should, you’re not alone. Watch this webinar for a refreshingly real take on why goal setting is challenging—even for experienced goal setters—and how to make your goals work for you. And remember: This or something better.
Goal setting isn’t about getting it perfect the first time—it’s about creating a vision, refining it, and staying committed. Take ownership of your goals, make them specific, and ensure they truly matter to you. And if you need a push, start by watching this webinar!
About the Author
More Content by Ellie Haskins
