Goals: The Blueprint for Success

Setting goals might not sound like the most exciting thing (and yeah, parents are always talking about “reaching your fullest potential”), but if you’re serious about making money and getting ahead, it’s actually kind of a must. Goals help you figure out exactly what you want and how to get there without wasting time. Here’s a step-by-step approach to crushing it with goal setting and getting closer to that financial freedom.

Step 1: Picture the Endgame

Think about where you want to be, whether it's in sports, school, a personal project, or a new skill. Imagining the end goal makes everything feel more real and gives you something to aim for.

Step 2: Break It Down

Big goals are awesome, but they can feel impossible if you take them on all at once. Break them into smaller, bite-sized steps. For example, if you want to save $5,000 in a year, figure out how much that means each month (about $417) and each week (around $96). Suddenly, it feels way more doable.

Step 3: Create a Routine

Building a routine around your goals is where the magic happens. If you have a weekly goal, set aside time each day or week to work on it. Making time for your goals consistently makes a huge difference.

Step 4: Track Your Progress

Every week or month, check in to see how close you’re getting to your goal. Write down your progress, or use an app to keep track. Seeing yourself get closer to the finish line can keep you motivated.

Step 5: Celebrate Small Wins

When you hit milestones, like finishing half the material or making it halfway to your goal, celebrate! It can be a small reward like going out with friends or taking a night off. This keeps you excited to keep going.

Step 6: Be Flexible and Adjust

Life happens, and sometimes goals need to change. If something isn’t working, make adjustments instead of giving up. It’s okay to adapt your plan as long as you’re still moving toward that end goal.

Bringing it Back to Financial Goals

Now, let’s bring this back to money. This exact system can be used to work toward financial goals too, like saving for a car, paying for college, or building up an emergency fund. Just swap out “study time” or “practice” for budgeting and saving, and you’re on your way to making serious progress with your money. Goal setting isn’t just a school or sports thing—it’s a life hack that can get you where you want to go, financially or otherwise.

Takin’ life one step at a time,

Arjun Lakireddy