Goal Setting In The New Year

New Year, New Me?

The new year can bring a whole host of emotions. Feeling like you haven’t done enough, comparing yourself to those around you or maybe feeling proud and grateful for all you have accomplished this year. No matter where you fall on the spectrum you are probably hoping and dreaming of making next year the best year or at least better than last year. This time of year comes as a natural time of reflection and gratitude, both of which are amazing therapeutic tools.

Sometimes letting yourself to ask a few key questions can bring about great opportunity to set meaningful goals for the new year. Even if you think there are no possibilities for more alignment in your relational, personal, or vocational life there is always room for more growth. If you are already seeing a therapist or counselor then you are taking the time to care for your mental and emotional health, well done! Below I share a few questions you can ask yourself to help you reflect and hopefully set a few goals for the new year. This list is in no way comprehensive and it just meant to get you thinking about three major facets of life, personal life, relational life and work life.  

Personal Goals

• Are you doing the things that you value the most?
• Are you taking care of your mental health?
• Do you take care of your physical health?
• Do you have any spiritual practices?
• Do you take time for self care?
• Are you financially healthy? 
• Are you making time to do the things your truly enjoy?
• What gives your life purpose and meaning?

Relational Goals

• Do you have a few close friends?
• Do you have healthy relationships?
• Is there anyone you need to cut out of your life?
• Is there anyone you need to have boundaries with in your life?
• Are you happy with the amount of quality “friend time” you get in life right now?
• How could you be a better friends or partner?
• How could you better state your needs to your friends or partner?
• Do you find yourself people pleasing?
• Do you feel drained or energized after spending quality time with the people in your life?

Work Goals

• Do you dread going to work?
• Do you find meaning or purpose from your work life?
• Do you advocate for yourself at work?
• Do you have a healthy relationship with your coworkers/supervisors?
• Do you feel that you can be yourself at work?
• Do you feel safe at work?
• Do you overwork yourself?
• Are you a perfectionist?
• Do you receive positive feedback from those around you?

Counseling in Akron, Ohio

I hope you found this post helpful. Please reach out if it seems like we could be a good fit. I am a therapist who works primarily with young adults,  I understand campus life better than most private practice therapists.  I have experience helping other young adults navigate the stressful college years and I very much enjoy counseling college students.  I see a variety of people in my Akron, Ohio counseling office. I treat people with depression, anxiety, religious trauma and gender dysphoria.  Still have questions? Get answers to common questions about counseling here or simply schedule a counseling session today to get started!