Every January starts the same way. We turn the page, take a deep breath, and declare: This is the year.
We vow to exercise more, save more, stress less, be better.

And then… life shows up.

There’s a reason New Year’s resolutions have such a short shelf life. Research consistently shows that most resolutions fade by February. Not because people lack motivation or discipline, but because resolutions are vague. “Lose weight” doesn’t survive carpool, deadlines, aging parents, and a calendar that fills itself.

Goals, on the other hand, can.

That’s why I love to use SMART goals . They aren’t about perfection or reinvention. They’re about clarity, intention, and momentum.

Do you have a clear financial vision for the next five years? If not, you're not alone. Many people have financial aspirations but lack a structured plan to achieve them. That’s where the SMART approach comes in—a framework designed to turn vague goals into actionable steps.