#41 - 01/05/2025

Embracing Goals Over Resolutions: My 2025 Journey Begins

On this day in 2012, I sat down with a sheet of paper, divided it in two, and created what I called a "Rebuild List." At the time, it felt like a lifeline—a tool to climb out of my biggest setbacks and regain control of my life. What started as a desperate measure has since evolved into a structured system for setting actionable, meaningful goals that guide my journey every year.

Over the years, I’ve refined this process by revisiting old journals, notes, and plans. As I look back through the records I’ve kept since 2014, I see a clear progression—a story of growth, learning, and transformation. Each page reveals small steps forward, occasional setbacks, and the undeniable power of persistence.

In 2020, a pivotal moment reshaped my commitment to personal growth. Just days before the first pandemic case was reported in the U.S., I resolved to make that year one of profound change. I picked up a book that had been collecting dust on my shelf: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Published in 1937, it’s a classic in personal development, and its timeless lessons immediately resonated with me. I committed to reading 10 pages a day until I finished it, and the insights from that book profoundly shaped my mindset and approach to goals—not just in 2020 but every year since.

Now, as I prepare for 2025, I find myself returning to the basics. Reflection has become an essential part of my annual process. I take stock of the goals I’ve set in the past, evaluate my progress, and assess what worked and what didn’t. This year, I’ve decided to revisit Think and Grow Rich for the sixth time, knowing that its principles continue to inspire and guide me. Each reread brings new clarity and reinforces the importance of persistence, purpose, and planning.

Why I Choose Goals Over Resolutions

For me, goals are more than aspirations—they’re a roadmap. While resolutions often fade within weeks, goals provide structure and direction for the full 365 days of the year. They challenge me to grow, offer measurable milestones, and ensure that I’m consistently working toward a bigger vision for my life.

Goals aren’t about perfection; they’re about progress. They’re about taking intentional steps toward becoming the person I want to be. This approach has helped me embrace challenges, stay focused, and celebrate victories, no matter how small. By the time December rolls around, I can look back on the year with gratitude for how far I’ve come—and with excitement for what’s ahead.

Setting Your Direction for 2025

Whether you’re a seasoned goal-setter or someone who prefers to make resolutions, I encourage you to take time today to define your direction for 2025.

Here are a few steps to help you get started:

Reflect on the Past Year: Look back on your accomplishments, challenges, and lessons learned. What went well? What could you improve?


Set Meaningful Goals: Focus on what truly matters to you. Break larger goals into smaller, actionable steps that you can tackle day by day.


Create a Plan: Write your goals down and map out a plan to achieve them. Use tools like calendars, journals, or digital trackers to stay organized.


Stay Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and your goals might evolve. Be willing to adapt and adjust your plan as needed.


Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your efforts and celebrate milestones along the way. Progress, not perfection, is what counts.

Moving Forward Together

This is my journey, and I’m excited to continue growing in 2025. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that progress is a shared experience. We inspire each other when we share our stories, lessons, and victories. So, whether you’re setting goals, making resolutions, or charting your own unique path, know that you’re not alone. Let’s embrace the journey together.

As the New Year begins, I’ll leave you with this thought: The actions you take today shape the person you’ll become tomorrow. Your future self will thank you for the time, effort, and intention you put in now.

Happy New Year, and here’s to a year of growth, purpose, and success! #ThinkAndGrowRich #GoalSetting #NewYear2025

From the author:

To whomever you are, I write that this publication will encourage you to subscribe and receive updates as we dive into the thirteen successful principles to move life from a roller coaster to less than a ripple. And remember, doing so will be worth your wage.

I look forward to reading your comments below.


Todd

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