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My Unusual Goal Setting Tips
Struggling with traditional goal-setting? Give it a twist! From setting easy goals to changing up the terminology, learn how to make your goals work for you. Listen now to The Freelancer’s Tea Break!
Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!
As freelancers, we’re often balancing ambition with reality, trying to set goals that push us without overwhelming us. But let’s face it—by January, many of us are already buried under countless goal-setting frameworks, leaving us wondering which approach actually works.
This week on The Freelancer’s Tea Break, I shared some unconventional but practical goal-setting strategies. These aren’t your typical “dream big or go home” tips. Instead, they’re designed to meet you where you are, give you a boost, and help you maintain momentum.
Here’s a summary of the tips to help you rethink how you set your goals this year.
1. Meet, Stretch, and Smash
This method gives your goals three levels of achievement:
- Meet: The minimum target you need to hit.
- Stretch: A slightly more ambitious goal.
- Smash: The “go big or go home” version.
For example, if you want to bring on new clients, your “meet” target might be three, your “stretch” target five, and your “smash” target eight. This approach makes goal-setting less daunting, and you’re more likely to build momentum as you achieve each level.
2. Make Some Goals Easy
We’re often told that goals should be challenging, but it’s okay to include some easy wins. Ticking off simple goals, like reading for five minutes a day, boosts your confidence and keeps you motivated.
Hard goals are great for growth, but they can also lead to burnout if they’re all you focus on. Balance is key.
3. Write Down Your Goals Daily
Out of sight, out of mind. Writing your goals down daily—or at least looking at them—helps cement them in your brain. Whether it’s in a notebook, on a sticky note, or in a digital app like Notion, this small habit keeps your goals fresh and actionable.
4. Adapt the Language to Suit You
If the term “goal” doesn’t resonate, try changing the language. Use words like “intentions,” “destinations,” or even gamified terms like “side quests” or “end boss”. The more the language excites you, the more likely you are to stay engaged.
What Are Your Goals?
Now it’s your turn! What’s one goal you’re excited about this year? Whether it’s personal or professional, big or small, I’d love to hear about it. Join the conversation in The Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group or connect with me on Instagram.
Let’s make this year one where we meet, stretch, and smash our way to success—while sipping a well-deserved cup of tea, of course!
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Email: hello@emmacossey.com
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