a person writing on a notebook

Welcome to the new year! 🎉 Now that we’ve looked back and gathered insights from the past year, it’s time to turn our focus forward. Let’s use what we learned to create a roadmap for the year ahead, grounded in purpose and designed for growth.

Here’s a framework to help you set meaningful goals, establish intentions, and plan a year that aligns with your vision.

1. Set Your Intentions for the Year 🎯

Question to ask: What’s the overarching theme or word I want to define this year?

Why it matters: Setting an intention provides a guiding principle for your actions. Whether it’s “growth,” “balance,” or “connection,” your intention becomes a lens for every decision. Think of it as your North Star, helping you navigate the year with purpose.

2. Big Goals and BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) 🚀

Question to ask: What are my top 3–5 goals that would make this year extraordinary?

Why it matters: Narrowing your focus on a few high-impact goals increases your chance of success. Define specific goals that challenge and excite you. Be bold! This is where you get to dream big and set ambitious targets. Remember, goals should be inspiring yet realistic enough to keep you motivated.

3. Break Down the Goals Into Action Steps 📝

Question to ask: What smaller steps or projects will help me achieve each goal?

Why it matters: Big goals can feel overwhelming, but breaking them down into actionable steps makes them manageable. Identify the first actions for each goal. Consider creating quarterly or monthly milestones to keep you on track, and remember to celebrate small wins along the way!

4. Create or Refine Daily and Weekly Habits ⏰

Question to ask: What daily or weekly habits will support my goals?

Why it matters: Habits build the foundation for lasting change. Reflect on the actions that had the most positive impact last year and think about new routines that align with your goals. Even small changes, like a consistent morning routine or weekly planning session, can make a significant difference over time.

5. Identify and Plan for Potential Obstacles 🛑

Question to ask: What challenges or distractions could derail my progress, and how will I handle them?

Why it matters: Obstacles are inevitable, but planning for them builds resilience. Identify common pitfalls—whether it’s time management, perfectionism, or burnout—and brainstorm strategies to navigate them. Having a “plan B” can help you stay on course when challenges arise.

6. Commit to Accountability and Support 🤝

Question to ask: Who can I share my goals with, and how will I stay accountable?

Why it matters: Accountability strengthens commitment. Share your goals with a trusted friend, mentor, or even a mastermind group. Regular check-ins can keep you motivated and provide encouragement. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—whether it’s advice, feedback, or simply someone cheering you on.

Bonus Tip: Invite your EA into this information to help keep you focused! 

Wrap-Up: Visualize the Finish Line 🌅

Close your planning session with a quick visualization. Imagine yourself at the end of the year, having achieved your goals and lived out your intention. How does it feel? What does success look like for you? Let that vision energize and inspire your journey.

The Bottom Line

The new year is a blank canvas. With clear intentions, meaningful goals, and actionable steps, you’re equipped to make this your best year yet. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress—and every small step counts.

Here’s to a year filled with purpose, growth, and impact. Let’s make it amazing!


Micah Foster headshot, Co-Owner of Dream Support for executive assistants

Micah Foster, Co-Owner

Micah Foster is a partner at Dream Support LLC who has been providing remote executive assistants to busy leaders who need administrative and organizational help for over five years.

He has a passion for creating and maintaining positive and productive work environments and empowering people to reach their full potential.