Think about the last goal you didn’t achieve. What did you tell yourself afterwards?
“I ran out of time.”
“It wasn’t my fault.”
“I’ll get back to it when things settle down.”
I think most of us have used one of those explanations. I certainly have. Sometimes circumstances really do get in the way. Illness, unexpected responsibilities and setbacks can change what is possible.
In 2024 I became extremely unwell and the year that I had expected didn’t pan out. However after leaving hospital just 2 ½ months before the World Championships and barely being able to walk, I told everyone that I was going to be there. It was a slow step by step process to get there.
People said to me “oh…that is a good goal to have.” And behind my back to others they said “she’ll never get there”. I even had that niggling voice in the back of my head wondering, but I put those steps in place towards that goal and I made it. I was able to finish off my international career in my own way.
Making sure I’m doing the right things to race and be the best I can be.
But let’s get back to you! Sometimes, if we’re honest, our explanation lets us avoid a harder question: Did my actions match my intentions?
We can want something deeply and still keep putting it off. We can spend hours planning, talking and imagining, without taking the steps that give our goal a chance.
That doesn’t mean we’re incapable. It means we need to look at how we’re following through.
Start with clarity. What exactly do you want to achieve, and why does it matter to you? “I want to get fitter” is a starting point. Deciding what you will do this week makes it something you can act on.
Then give it your focus. If your goal matters, where does it fit in your diary? Waiting for spare time can mean waiting indefinitely.
Build accountability. That might be an honest weekly check-in with yourself or a friend who asks, “Did you do what you said you would?” Someone who supports you and challenges you can make a difference.
Be consistent. Small actions repeated regularly build progress. An imperfect step today can take you further than a perfect plan you never begin.
And remember your commitment when motivation disappears. You can adjust your pace or change your approach while still moving towards what matters.
Taking responsibility gives us something useful: a place to start making changes.
Hope can help us imagine a different future. Action helps us build it.
So, think about that goal again. What is one thing within your control that you can do today?
It’s never too late to begin again—with a clearer plan and a commitment to follow through.