New Year's Resolutions are so 2024...try this instead.

This past week has been a whirlwind, juggling managing a blossoming business, client expectations, lots of holiday events, and other personal commitments. Yet, amidst the chaos, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride, fulfillment, energy, and—most importantly—GRATITUDE. I truly appreciate every opportunity that comes my way. I also appreciate you (and I truly mean that)! 

However, it has sparked a reflection. Do I want to continue this relentless pace into 2025?

As I glanced through my calendar, it hit me: I barely took any vacations or time off in 2024, constantly occupied with either my business or my 9-to-5. Is this a pattern I want to carry into the next year? No and nope!   

I know what I aspire to achieve, but how often do I pause to consider what I want to steer clear of? This reminded me of the idea of Anti-Goals that I explored in Andrew Wilkinson’s book. Instead of mapping out lofty ambitions, they created a list of things they wanted to avoid. The goal was straightforward: to enjoy their work, prevent burnout, and cultivate a life that feels rewarding from within, rather than just impressive on the surface. 

As we gear up for 2025 goal setting, I thought it might be beneficial to unpack this concept and see how it could reshape your life, enhance your productivity, and potentially boost your happiness.

1. Why Conventional Goal Setting Can Fall Short 

We’ve all heard that setting big goals is the key to success. But here’s the catch: unchecked ambition can quickly become a burden. Many successful individuals appear to have it all—wealth, accolades, influence—but often feel overwhelmed and unfulfilled. They’re burnt out, fatigued, and perpetually chasing the next success.

I can relate to this, and I suspect many of you can too. Sound familiar?

Anti-Goals encourage us to flip our perspective. Instead of fixating on what we want to add to our lives, they prompt us to consider what we want to avoid.

This shift in thinking, inspired by Warren Buffett’s partner Charlie Munger, is truly impactful. Munger’s approach is straightforward: if you know what you don’t want, you can intentionally steer clear of it.

2. Crafting Your Own Anti-Goals 

To start identifying your Anti-Goals, ask yourself: What would an awful day look like for me?

Visualize a day that feels utterly draining—where you’re inundated with tasks that frustrate or exhaust you, pulling you away from what truly matters. Jot down every detail that comes to mind. Perhaps it includes a packed schedule, endless meetings, engaging with draining individuals, or being forced to travel on a whim.

Here’s an example of an Anti-Goal list, drawing from Wilkinson’s insights:

- Avoid lengthy, unproductive meetings.

- Keep the schedule open, limiting commitments to just a couple of hours daily.

- Don't work with clients or partners who don’t align with your values, even if it means saying no to opportunities.

- Steer clear of relationships that impose unnecessary obligations or create a sense of indebtedness.

- Ditch strict office hours—work from wherever feels best, if possible.

- Avoid early morning meetings to prioritize restful sleep.

By pinpointing these Anti-Goals, you develop a clear vision of what you wish to avoid. From there, you can make conscious choices to navigate away from these situations whenever possible. 

What is one of your anti-goals? I'd love to hear more!