Earlier this year, I reflected that in the heart of winter, goal-setting felt less aligned with the energy of resting, going inward, and moving slowly.
Here in Colorado, spring has arrived, and with it my energy for new ideas, goals, and exploration. I updated my Garden-Inspired Guide to Goal Setting worksheet for you, as well as some goal gardening tips. Feel free to download this one or use it as inspiration to create your own (please snap a photo and share it with me if you do!).
Start by preparing your soil: think about your resources, time, and energy. What has been waiting for the right moment to bloom?
Plant diversity is key: Include big ambitious goals AND quick-win projects, like plants that grow and bloom early and those that take longer to come to fruition.
Tend your garden: Check back with your goals and adjust as necessary based on what you’re observing and feeling. As the year progresses, some goals will flourish while others might need pruning or extra attention. By harvest time later this year, you’ll be ready to enjoy the fruits of your effort!
Keep reading for more detailed goal setting/planning prompts:
Start with reflection, and be as specific as you can:
Take stock of the previous year's achievements and setbacks
Identify what worked well and what patterns held you back
Consider which goals still resonate and which need adjusting
Reflection prompts:
What were my top 3 proudest moments of last year?
Which goals did I abandon and why?
When did I feel most energized and fulfilled?
Use the SMART framework:
Specific: Define exactly what you want to accomplish
Measurable: Include concrete ways to track progress
Achievable: Keep goals challenging but realistic
Relevant: Align with your values and broader life direction
Time-bound: Set clear deadlines and milestones
Example: Instead of "Get healthier" try something like "Complete 30 minutes of exercise 3 times per week, tracking in my fitness app."
Break down long-term goals:
Divide annual goals into quarterly objectives
Create monthly action items
Set weekly tasks that build toward bigger targets
Build in accountability:
Share goals with a trusted friend or mentor
Schedule regular check-ins to review progress
Use a tracking system that works for you (digital tools, journal, etc.)
Consider joining a mastermind group or finding an accountability partner
Plan for obstacles:
Anticipate potential challenges
Develop contingency plans
Build in flexibility for unexpected changes
Thank you for your collaboration, humor, and what you do to make the world a better place.
Cheers,
Where in the World is ConverSketch?
Denver, Colorado: Crafting a vision for international opportunities with senior leadership for the Colorado State Global System at the CSU Spur. It was inspiring to hear CSU President Amy Parsons sharing that international collaboration and inclusivity for student success are very much priorities for the University and listen to ideas for systems perspective problem solving from the gathered group. And this week the Chancellor of the CSU System sent an email about the work including the graphic recordings from the session!
Albuquerque, New Mexico: Supporting a dedicated, compassionate, driven, and intelligent group of research data analysts from universities and libraries across the globe discussing how to best support learning in the age of artificial intelligence. Here is a synthesis wall of key take-aways created over two-days. Thanks to Lizard Brain for the opportunity to represent you with this love group!