Set Career Goals That Actually Stick

Every year, I work with professionals who start off full of excitement and big ambitions, only to feel deflated months later when things haven’t gone as planned. It’s not because they’re unmotivated or lacking talent. More often than not, their goals were either too vague, too overwhelming, or not connected to what they truly wanted. Setting career goals that actually stick isn’t about working harder, it’s about working with clarity and intention.

The first shift is moving away from outcome-only goals like getting promoted or making more money. While those can be motivating, they often leave us stuck when progress isn’t immediate. I always encourage clients to break their goals into smaller, process-based steps. For example, instead of getting a new job, focus on updating your resume by next Friday, or reach out to 3 contacts this month. These are clear, achievable actions, that you are in control of, that build confidence and momentum.

Another key is making sure your goals actually align with your values, not just your current job title. When goals feel disconnected from who you are and what matters to you, they become hard to sustain. Take time to reflect: What kind of work energizes you? What do you want your days to feel like? The more your goals reflect your deeper purpose, the more likely you are to follow through.

If you’ve struggled to stick to your goals in the past, don’t beat yourself up! Most people don’t need more willpower, they need a better strategy. Revisit your goals with fresh eyes, break them into manageable pieces, and connect them to something meaningful. When you do that, momentum becomes inevitable and your career starts to move in real, lasting ways.