The Art of Goal Setting: Choosing Fulfillment Over Burnout

“It’s the time of year when everything gets crazy busy.” If you're like me, you've probably said that more times than you can count this year.

First, there was the chaos of the beginning of the year—setting big goals and preparing for the baby arriving at the end of January. Then came the spring market, the farm work, and everything that needed attention at home. Summer rolled in with business, fun family trips, and any excuse to be near the water or soaking up the sun. Then fall hit, and suddenly, we were back to the whirlwind of activities. Now, here we are in the hustle of the holidays. Throw in starting new businesses, growing a family, and navigating life with three young kids... and yeah, it’s been one heck of a year.

But here’s the thing: I’ve already started making more space for rest. Not by choice, mind you. My body’s kind of forcing me to slow down, especially as I get further along in my pregnancy.

And as I’ve been slowing down and reflecting on the year, something has clicked for me. I’m realizing that the way I’ve been setting goals needs to shift. As someone who talks about setting big goals, it can feel like there's always pressure to aim for something massive. But lately, I’ve realized that it doesn’t have to be that way. My goals don’t need to get bigger and bigger each year for me to feel like I’m succeeding. In fact, it’s the opposite.

This year, I’ve laid the groundwork for some amazing things—things that are moving me closer to the life I’ve been dreaming about. I’ve also learned how to enjoy the life I’m living right now, instead of waiting for someday down the road.

And don’t get me wrong, I’m still doing big things. But the difference this time is that I’m doing them because they align with my long-term vision. They’re not just “big goals” for the sake of achievement. I’m choosing things that matter—things that light me up, not just things that look good on paper.

As I start thinking about next year, I’ve realized that my goals aren’t about more. They’re about energy. I’m focusing less on numbers, growth, and titles, and more on how the things I’m pursuing actually feel.

If you’re starting to think about your own goals for next year, here’s my reminder to you: the best goals aren’t the ones that leave you burnt out and exhausted. They’re the ones that leave you fulfilled, energized, and excited to wake up every day. It’s easy to get caught up in external milestones, but let’s be real—if those goals aren’t rooted in your why and your long-term vision, they’re probably just going to drain you.

I get it—you want big things. I do, too. But I’ve learned the hard way that big goals are only worth it if they align with your real desires and values. So, before you set any huge targets for the next year, ask yourself: Will this goal help me create the life I truly want? Or will it just be another box to check?

This year, I’m setting goals that fill me up, not drain me. And I’m doing it for me, not for anyone else’s idea of success. If you’re ready to step into the next year with purpose, remember this: you don’t have to chase someone else’s definition of success. You get to design a life and goals that feel good to YOU.

So here’s to setting goals that make us feel alive—not just busy. Goals that align with the life we want to live, not just the things we think we should be doing. Because when you get clear on your vision, big things happen. And they happen without burnout.