Ah, the new year—a time of fresh starts, bold resolutions, and big dreams. Something about flipping the calendar to January makes us feel unstoppable. We say to ourselves, This is my year. This year, I will crush my goals and become the best version of myself.
Let me ask you a question. How often have you made resolutions in January, only to forget them by February? It happens to the best of us, not because we lack ambition or drive; we often set goals without a clear plan or intention.
At Proudtobeme, we believe that young people have the potential to lead, create, and transform their world. To make those dreams a reality, you need more than wishful thinking—intentionality. So, let’s talk about how to set intentional goals that stick.
A Tale of Two Resolutions
Every January, Jeff would write a long list of resolutions: learn a new skill, save money, start a business, read 50 books, and so on. But by mid-February, his enthusiasm would fizzle out. The list became overwhelming, and he’d give up entirely.
Zack, on the other hand, took a different approach. He chose one or two key goals that mattered most to him. Instead of saying, “I want to save money,” he set a clear target: “I’ll save ₦5,000 every week by cutting back on unnecessary expenses.” He broke his goal into small, manageable steps and tracked his progress.
By the end of the year, Zack had not only achieved his goals but had also built the confidence to aim even higher. Jeff? He was back to making another long list, hoping this time would be different.
The difference between Jeff and Zack wasn’t talent or opportunity—it was intentionality.
What Are Intentional Goals?
Intentional goals are purposeful, specific, and aligned with your values and vision. They’re not about ticking boxes or following trends but about creating meaningful progress in areas that truly matter to you.
When you set intentional goals, you:
- Focus on quality over quantity.
- Break big goals into smaller, actionable steps.
- Stay motivated because your goals align with your “why.”
How to Set Goals That Stick
If you’re ready to make 2025 the year your goals become reality, here’s a step-by-step guide to setting intentional goals:
- Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on the past year. What went well? What challenges did you face? What lessons did you learn? Reflection helps you identify what’s important and where to focus your energy.
- Ask yourself: What matters most to me? If entrepreneurship is your passion, set goals that move you closer to building or growing your business. If employability is your focus, prioritize skills that make you more competitive in the job market.
- Intentional goals are SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of saying, “I want to learn a skill,” say, “I will complete an online course on graphic design by March 31st.”
- Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them into smaller steps. If your goal is to start a side hustle, your first step might be researching business ideas and creating a simple business plan.
- Regularly check in with yourself to see how you are doing. Celebrate small wins along the way—they will keep you motivated and remind you that progress is being made.
- Life happens, and sometimes, your goals may need to be adjusted. That’s okay. Intentionality isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence.
A Challenge for You
As you step into 2025, we challenge you to set one intentional goal in each of these areas:
Entrepreneurship: What can you do this year to start or grow your business?
Employability: What skill can you learn to increase your value in the job market?
Leadership: How can you inspire and influence others positively?
Creativity: What project or idea have you been dreaming of bringing to life?
Write these goals down, make them SMART, and take the first step today.
At Proudtobeme, we believe that young people are not just tomorrow’s leaders—they’re today’s leaders. By setting intentional goals, you’re creating a better future for yourself and building a legacy that will inspire others.
Let us make 2025 a year to remember—one intentional goal at a time. What is your first step toward your dream this year? Please share with us in the comments. We would love to cheer you on!
