How I Set (and Actually Achieve) My Biggest Goals

Plus an invitation to my new goal-setting mastermind retreat

Over the years, I’ve developed a simple formula that helps navigate common emotional roadblocks that often get in the way of reaching big, ambitious goals. This approach helped me push through hard times on my way to:

• Designing my dream career from scratch on a shoestring budget.

• Doubling my income after years of believing I could never earn ‘real’ money.

• Landing three consecutive book deals—with no prior publishing experience.

For years, my goal-meeting method was a personal practice, but when I could no longer work in people’s homes as an organizer during the height of Covid-19, I had to completely rethink my business. So, I launched a business mentorship program for entrepreneurs—sharing my formular and offering the exact kind of strategy and support I wish I had when I started. It’s become one of the most rewarding and meaningful parts of my business.

Since then, I’ve coached nearly 100 female-founders across the globe, from home organizers and stylists to creative directors and even a brain surgeon. These women represented the spectrum of identity and experience, but they all shared one thing in common: An expansive vision for what was possible for themselves and their businesses, and a hunger to turn that vision into a reality.

photography credit: Vivian Johnson for LifeStyled

Going after a big goal is brave, and I’ve seen the same emotional roadblocks surface again and again. It seems that fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome are really just part of the deal for everyone. Setting and actually achieving big goals requires more than just discipline and willpower—it’s about having a compelling, structured plan with plenty of support built in.

Here’s my four-step method for making it happen:

Step One: Get Super Specific About Your Goal

Vague goals won’t get you far. The more specific, measurable, and time-bound your goal is, the better. Instead of broad intentions, define clear, actionable targets:

• Be healthier → Eat one green vegetable every day for three months.

• Be more organized → Declutter and organize the garage by May 1st.

• Make more money → Increase my freelance rates by 25% this year.

• Get in shape → Train for and complete a 5K by October.

• Read more → Finish one book per month for a year.

If you’re unsure whether your goal is too vague, ask yourself: How will I know when I’ve achieved it? If there’s no clear answer, refine it further.

Step Two: Define a Compelling Motivation

A strong why keeps you going when things get tough—and they will if your goals are big enough. Your reason should feel energizing (even galvanizing) enough to spur you to action.

Ask yourself:

• Why do I want to achieve this goal?

• Does it align with my values and the person I want to become?

• Does it feel exciting and meaningful?

• Does it feel good in my body?

If your goal doesn’t inspire you, it may need a rethink.

Step Three: Create a Structured Plan (With Built-in Backup Plans)

Once you’ve defined your goal, work backwards to break it down into manageable action steps. Consider every single thing you’ll need to do to create the outcome you want. Think of each step as a mini-goal that moves you forward and don’t forget the small but mighty details like research and scheduling.

For example, if your goal is to work out consistently, your steps might include:

→ Finding a gym or online program you love
→ Buying comfortable workout clothes and sneakers
→ Scheduling workouts in your calendar
→ Enlisting a friend to be your accountability partner

But life happens, so anticipate obstacles and create backup plans:

• If you’re too busy for an hour-long workout → Do a 15-minute session instead.

• If childcare falls through → Try a quick at-home workout or go on a long walk with your kids.

• If you’re exhausted after work → Switch to morning workouts or lunchtime walks.

Ask yourself: What challenges might come up? What’s my plan for each one? When you have built-in solutions, it’s easier to stay on track—no matter what life throws your way.

Step Four: Seek (so much) Support

Most of us make the mistake of thinking we have to figure everything out alone, but success is rarely a solo endeavor. Surrounding yourself with the right people—those who believe in your potential and encourage you to go further—is not just helpful, it’s crucial for your success.

Consider:

• Telling trusted friends about your goal

• Creating a system for tracking progress

• Joining a mastermind or goal-setting group

• Hiring a coach or mentor

When I started, I had no budget for coaching, so I traded organizing services for business mentorship. I also launched a free goal-setting group at a local coffee shop. There is no way I could have succeeded without the support and cheerleading I got from my mentor, coaches, and colleagues along the way. If you don’t have built-in support, create it.

Working toward big, intimidating goals has pushed me to grow in unimaginable ways. I’ve become a pro at embracing vulnerability, overcoming challenges, and asking for help. Goal setting has boosted my confidence and made me feel more resilient in all ways. My newest goal? Helping others go after their own big goals in the most fun and supportive way…

A goal-setting mastermind retreat on the California coast

An Invitation to Take Your Goals to the Next Level

**The Goal Setting Mastermind retreat is SOLD OUT. Click here to get on the waitlist!

If you’re looking for expert strategy, structure, and full-spectrum support to reach your biggest goals, I’m launching an intimate, high-impact mastermind retreat.

This all-inclusive retreat (Oct 6-8, 2025, California coast) includes a private 1:1 strategy session with me and (2) follow-up group coaching sessions for continued support, accountability, and momentum.

Join a small group of ambitious creatives, founders, and goal-setters for two transformative days of coaching, workshops, and deep connection. You’ll leave with a customized action plan, a proven success framework, and ongoing accountability.

And (huge bonus!) enjoy fresh, seasonal, farm-to-table meals and thoughtful provisions prepared by my brother Max, a globally-trained private chef. He even promised a fancy ice cream sundae bar!

Useful resource: Good Good Good just shared a terrific roundup of ethical online shopping alternatives to Amazon. To the post.

Feel-good content: Zachery Dereniowski, known as MD Motivator on social media, is on a mission to spread love, kindness, and generosity to strangers he meets on the street. This short video made me weep.

Mini spring edit from my favorite small, female-founded brands:

The chicest packable sun hat - SHIRA15 for 15% off at Janessa Leone

A really good sweatshirt - Aliya Wanek

Studded fisherman sandals - Freda Salvador

Blossom birthstone studs - via Ariel Gordon

NEW: 1:1 Strategy Sessions: Laser-focused coaching sessions (book publishing, pr, marketing, goal setting, and productivity). Info Here.

For the Entrepreneur: Start or scale your business with my mentorship program for creative entrepreneurs - Info Here.

The Get Organized Master Class: Learn how to edit, organize, and elevate your home like a pro. Info Here.

For Curated Product Recs: My fewer better faves for your home, life, and wardrobe. To the Recs

Minimalista - edit, organize, and style every room in your home. Order here.

Organized Living - inspiration, tips, and home tours from 25 experts across the globe. Order here.

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