If you’ve felt like the past year has been an emotional roller coaster of uncertainty and anxiety, you’re not alone. As we get ready to flip the calendar, now’s an ideal time to reflect and reset with purpose. Setting goals for 2026 isn’t about reinventing yourself. It’s about reconnecting with what matters and building a plan that you will actually follow through on.

Set aside some time and really think about your habits, attitudes and well-being routine over the past months. Write down (or make a note in your phone) some points that you can continuously refer to when inspiration strikes.

First, let’s start by reflecting on where you are today. Here’s a few questions to get you started:

• What patterns do you notice in your current life?
• Which areas feel fulfilling?
• Which areas feel out of alignment?

Once you’ve taken a clear look at your life today, the next step is vision. Not just what you want to achieve, but how you want to feel and live. Here are some more questions to consider:

• What habits/routines/attitudes will you stop?
• What will you start?
• What will you continue to do?

Finally, choose one clear priority and write a SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound) goal around it.

• What progress could you make in the next 90 days that would feel meaningful?
• Which areas of life need the most attention right now?

Setting goals and making meaningful change can seem like an impossible feat when we feel like we can barely keep our heads above water. But you don’t have to do it alone. In our next article, we’ll look at why an accountability partner is an invaluable part of the process and sets you up for success. And that’s where working with a coach, like Leah M Joppy and Associates, can help.

Ready to shake off 2025 and walk into 2026 with a fresh perspective and strong action plan? Learn more by calling us at 301-670-0051 or email us at leah@lmja.com.