As we step into the new year, many of us set goals and we tend to focus on the CONTENT of our goals. 

As a former “goal-driven machine,” I’ve learned that it’s important to pause and ask ourselves: What’s the INTENT of my goals?

In other words, When I achieve these goals - so what? How will they help bring more emotional satisfaction to my life based on what I value the most?

Life is about emotional satisfaction. If you ask someone enough whys (or so-whats) about their goals, their answer will eventually get to an emotion (if not, you haven’t asked enough whys).

Years ago, I set a career goal to lead a global business by the age of 40. For two decades, I worked relentlessly to achieve it, de-prioritizing all other elements of life along the way. When I finally reached that summit, I expected fulfillment— but instead, I felt an immense sense of void.

Looking back, I realized I never stopped to examine why I wanted that goal. I think my relentless effort was more about proving myself than about deeply understanding what brings me fully alive. 

Since then, I’ve learned to set goals rooted in INTENT — focusing on the ultimate emotional satisfaction that fuels my soul. 

By being very clear on my desired emotional state, I can actually choose to make it the place I come from vs. to get to. If you want to gain satisfaction, come from satisfaction; if you want to reach calmness, come from calmness; if you want to seek love or respect, come from love or respect. This shift has transformed my life, bringing greater meaning and fulfillment.

In 2025, my intention to live with EASE. Knowing that, I intentionally approach all my goals with ease and flow. It’s already happening!

So, as you set your goals this year, I invite you to reflect:

• What is ultimately important to you and will bring you the most emotional satisfaction?  

• How how I come from that place of emotional state as I pursue my goals, starting now?

Wishing you an intentional and fulfilling year ahead!