As we enter the new year, many of us make resolutions. Maybe you promised yourself you’d exercise more, eat healthier, grow your business, or finally get your finances in order. But the reality is by mid-February, nearly 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail.
That’s because resolutions often set us up for failure. They tend to be rigid, all-or-nothing declarations that leave little room for life’s unpredictability. The minute we slip up, we feel like we’ve failed, and we abandon the goal altogether. But there’s a better way. Instead of making fleeting resolutions, let’s talk about setting intentions – a mindset shift that can help you actually achieve what you want in 2025.
Intentions vs Resolutions
Resolutions tend to be pass/fail. You either succeed or you don’t. If you say, “I’m going to work out five days a week,” and you miss a few workouts, you might feel discouraged and quit altogether.
Intentions, by contrast, focus on the journey rather than the destination. They are fluid and adaptable, meaning they leave room for real life to happen. Instead of saying, “I will work out every day,” an intention might be, “I will make my health a priority by moving my body in ways that feel good and fit my schedule.” This approach removes the pressure of perfection and instead focuses on creating lasting habits.
Start by Writing Down Your Intentions
There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper. Studies show that people who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. Writing solidifies your commitment and makes your goals feel real.
But don’t just jot down vague goals like, “Make more money,” or “Be healthier.” Instead, get specific and write them as action statements:
- Instead of “I want to save more money,” write: “I will increase my savings by 10% and set up an automatic transfer to my savings account every month.”
- Instead of “I want to get fit,” write: “I will prioritize my health by scheduling three workouts per week and meal-prepping on Sundays.”
By being clear and actionable, your intentions become more achievable because you’ve given yourself a plan.
Break Big Goals into Small, Achievable Steps
The biggest mistake people make when setting goals? They aim too big, too fast. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you set a huge goal without a roadmap. That’s why breaking it down into 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day steps makes all the difference.
For example, if your intention is to scale your business in 2025, don’t just say, “I want to increase revenue.” Instead, break it down into smaller, achievable steps:
- First 30 days: Research new revenue streams, analyze last year’s performance, and identify areas for growth.
- Next 60 days: Implement a marketing strategy to attract more clients.
- Next 90 days: Track progress, adjust strategies, and evaluate financial performance.
Progress builds momentum. Small wins lead to bigger wins, and before you know it, you’re making real strides toward your goals.
Find an Accountability Partner
You don’t have to do this alone. Accountability is one of the biggest success factors. Sharing your goals with someone who can check in on your progress keeps you motivated and less likely to give up.
Think about someone in your life, a friend, business partner, coach, or mentor – someone who can hold you accountable. This works in business, fitness, finances, and personal growth. If you tell someone you’ll be up at 5:30 AM hitting the treadmill, they might just text you to make sure you’re actually there.
If you run a business, having a business coach or CPA in your corner can be invaluable. Not only can they keep you on track, but they can provide guidance, strategies, and insights to ensure you’re making the right financial and strategic moves throughout the year.
Make Reflection Part of Your Routine
Setting intentions is not a one-time event – it’s definitely a process. That’s why regularly checking in with yourself is so important. At the end of each month, take a moment to reflect:
- What progress have I made toward my intentions?
- What challenges came up, and how can I adjust?
- What wins should I celebrate?
Reflection helps you course-correct, stay motivated, and build long-term habits.
Take the Reins in 2025
Be realistic when setting these intentions. There will be weeks when you fall behind on your goals. And that’s okay. Intentions allow for flexibility. If you get off track, don’t give up. After all, success isn’t about never slipping up – it’s about how quickly you get back on track.
This year isn’t just about making resolutions you’ll abandon by February. It’s about setting real, meaningful intentions that will lead to growth, progress, and success.
2025 is yours for the taking. What will you make of it?If you’re serious about setting and achieving your financial and business goals this year, make sure you’re getting the right support. Subscribe to our Harper & Co. YouTube channel for expert tax tips and financial advice. Tune in to the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast for strategies and insights to help you grow your business.
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