Every year, my husband and I take some time to set the tone for the year ahead. It’s become an automatic reflex for us—sitting down, reflecting on the past year, and talking about what we want to accomplish in the next. But we also leave room for flexibility because, let’s face it, life has a way of surprising us.
This practice has been so grounding for us, especially as we’ve transitioned from me working five jobs to us growing a business—and now, actually enjoying life a little. Let me tell you, that last part feels a incredibly strange for me. I’m so used to hustling that slowing down feels like uncharted territory and completely awkward at times, which is kind of why I started this blog. But I’m learning to embrace boredom or ‘relaxation’ sometimes.
If you’re thinking about how to set your goals for the year or set the tone you want to carry into the next 12 months, here’s what works for us—and maybe it’ll help you too.
IN THIS ARTICLE
How to Create Your Goals as a Couple and Set the Tone for the Year (7 Steps)
1. Start with Reflection
Before jumping into goal-setting, we like to reflect on the past year. What worked? What didn’t? What made us feel happy, fulfilled, or proud? Reflection helps you figure out what you want more of—and what you’re ready to leave behind.
For example, last year, we realized we’d been so focused on work that we weren’t carving out enough time for family or fun. That realization inspired a shift in how we approach our goals and set the tone for this year.
2. Define Your Priorities
When it comes to goal-setting, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There’s so much you could focus on! That’s why we narrow it down to what’s truly important to us.
This year, our list looks something like this:
1. Buy the land behind our home or plan to move if neighbours don’t want to sell.
2. Change the backsplash in the kitchen.
3. Upgrade the motor on my husbands Harley Davidson.
4. Focus on blogging, but not entirely—leave room for boredom or relaxation.
5. Attempt running outside again (despite my struggles with chronic pain).
6. Eat healthier.
7. Spend more time with family.
8. Stay informed on the stock market.
9. Maintain our rental properties.
10. Dip our feet into private lending even more.
Some of these goals are big (like deciding whether to move), while others are smaller but equally meaningful (like spending more time with family). What matters is that they’re personal to us and align with the life we want to build.
3. Be Open to Surprises
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that while planning is important, so is being open to the unexpected. Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and sometimes the best opportunities come out of nowhere.
By leaving some space for flexibility, we’ve been able to pivot when needed—whether it’s seizing a business opportunity or simply taking time to enjoy life in ways we didn’t anticipate.
This was the craziest surprise for me, and it’s the perfect reminder that the best memories often come from the most unexpected moments! Check it out…
4. Set the Tone for the Year, Not Just the Goals
Goals are the what—but the tone is the how.
How do you want to feel this year?
What kind of energy do you want to bring to your life?
For us, the tone this year is about happiness, health and balance. After years of non-stop work, we’re focusing on enjoying life while still being productive. It’s about saying yes to growth but also yes to rest and connection.
When you set your tone, think about the overall vibe you want for your year. Is it about peace? Boldness? Fun? Growth? Let that guide not just your goals but how you approach them.
5. Break It Down
Big goals can feel overwhelming, so we break ours into smaller, actionable steps. For instance:
• For “buy the land behind our home,” the first step might be researching zoning laws or reaching out to the municipality for more information. As well as a lawyer who can help assist you through the process.
• For “eat healthier,” it might mean meal prepping or swapping sugary snacks for fruits.
Breaking goals into manageable pieces makes them less daunting and more achievable.
6. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
This is a big one for me. I’m the type of person who tends to focus on what’s not done instead of celebrating what is. But this year, I’m trying to embrace progress over perfection.
Whether it’s finishing a blog post, sticking to healthier meals for a week, or even running for 15 minutes without my chronic pain stopping me, every little win counts.
7. Make It Yours
Your goals don’t have to look like anyone else’s. Maybe you’re starting a fitness journey, launching a business, or simply trying to get more sleep. Whatever it is, make it personal and meaningful to you.
At the end of the day, your goals and the tone you set are about creating a life that feels good to live. And if you stumble along the way? That’s okay. Growth isn’t linear, but every step forward—no matter how small—matters.
So here’s to a new year, new goals, and a tone that feels just right.
What are you focusing on this year? I’d love to hear about your goals in the comments!
cover photo by Polina on Pexels.
Discover more from The Unscripted Femme
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.