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Reflecting on Progress: It's Okay to Adjust Your Goals

Writer's picture: Jen SequelJen Sequel
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Setting goals is a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. They give us direction, purpose, and a sense of accomplishment when achieved. But what happens when the path we've chosen doesn't seem to lead where we thought it would? Or when our initial plan feels like it's not working as intended? The answer lies in the power of reflection and the willingness to adjust.


Why Reflecting on Progress Matters


Regularly evaluating your progress isn't just a way to stay on track—it's a way to ensure that your track is still the right one for you. Life is dynamic, and so are we. Circumstances, priorities, and even our own understanding of what we want can shift over time. By reflecting on our progress, we can:

  • Identify What’s Working (and What’s Not): Not every plan is foolproof. Reflection helps pinpoint areas of success and those that need tweaking.

  • Understand External Influences: Life can throw curveballs that impact our ability to meet goals. Adjusting for these realities is a sign of resilience, not failure.

  • Reconnect with Your Why: Revisiting the reasons behind your goals ensures they still align with your values and aspirations.


How to Effectively Reflect on Your Goals

  1. Schedule Regular Check-Ins: Set aside time—weekly, monthly, or quarterly—to assess where you stand. Use journals, apps, or even a simple checklist to track progress.

  2. Ask Key Questions: During your check-in, ask yourself:

    • Am I making the progress I anticipated?

    • Have circumstances changed?

    • Do I still feel motivated and connected to this goal?

  3. Be Honest and Objective: Avoid sugar-coating or being overly critical. Treat your reflection as a learning opportunity, not a judgment session.

  4. Look at the Big Picture: Sometimes, slow progress is still progress. Are you building momentum or spinning wheels?

  5. Seek Feedback: If your goals involve collaboration, ask trusted colleagues, friends, or mentors for their perspective.


Adjusting Doesn’t Mean Giving Up


When a goal isn’t working out as planned, the tendency might be to feel like you’re failing or not giving it enough time. However, adjusting your approach can be the smartest move you make. Here’s how:

  • Reassess Your Timeline: Maybe the goal was too ambitious for the timeframe you set. Break it into smaller, manageable steps.

  • Redefine Success: What does achieving this goal mean to you now? Success evolves, and so can your metrics.

  • Change Your Methods: If your strategy isn’t yielding results, experiment with alternative approaches.

  • Consider Letting Go: Some goals serve their purpose as stepping stones. If a goal no longer resonates, it’s okay to let it go and focus on what does.


When to Give Goals More Time


On the flip side, it’s also essential to recognize when your efforts need more patience rather than a pivot. Consider giving your goal more time if:

  • The foundation is solid, but progress is slower than anticipated.

  • External factors (e.g., market trends, learning curves) require more time to align.

  • You’re passionate about the outcome, even if the process is challenging.


Embrace Growth Over Perfection


Ultimately, adjusting your goals is about aligning with what’s best for you at any given moment. Progress is not always linear, and that's okay. Allow yourself the flexibility to grow, adapt, and refine your path.


Remember, reflecting and adjusting isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a sign of wisdom. By acknowledging what works and what doesn’t, you’re honoring your commitment to becoming the best version of yourself.


What’s your process for reflecting and adjusting your goals? Do you struggle with giving yourself enough time, or are you quick to pivot? Share your thoughts and let’s grow together.

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