In September, I had the pleasure of speaking at the Friday Lunch Club, hosted at the beautiful Bar Elvina in Avalon. The atmosphere was electric, filled with ambitious marketing professionals excited to discuss how to reset their visions and goal setting for 2025. As we gathered to focus on the day’s theme, “Thrive in ’25: Resetting your vision and goals,” the energy in the room was buzzing, and it reminded me of how powerful effective goal setting can be for driving success.
Why Goal Setting Matters
Goal setting isn’t just about jotting down a few aspirations; it’s about creating a roadmap to your future. At the event, I shared my personal journey, from my humble beginnings in the picturesque small town of Gore, New Zealand, to competing on the world stage in figure skating. The lessons I learned during those formative years—about discipline, mental toughness, resilience and thinking beyond your environment—are the same principles I apply to business and marketing today.
Here’s some key takeaways from the event to help you with effective goal setting:
- Set Clear, Ambitious Goals
I always start the year by identifying my top ten goals—specific, measurable targets to achieve by December 31st. This might mean setting revenue targets, market expansion goals, or key milestones for your team. The key is to review these goals regularly and adjust as needed.
Takeaway: Establish clear objectives and revisit them consistently to ensure you’re on track. It can be easy for “life to get in the way” of your big picture if you don’t keep those goals front of mind!
- Define Your ‘Why’
Understanding the motivation behind your goals is where it all starts. For me, it’s about being the best version of myself and inspiring others. For you, it may involve making a meaningful impact in your industry or innovating your brand’s identity. Think about why you do what you do and ask yourself: “What’s the point?” These questions will guide you toward the all-powerful “why”.
Takeaway: Clarify your “why” to stay motivated, especially when challenges arise. We all have flat days where it’s hard to get anything done, but knowing your “why” will help you stay on track.
- Track Progress and Hold Yourself Accountable
Accountability is essential for growth. I measure my performance monthly and lean on a mentor for guidance and challenge. Having someone who pushes you—rather than just cheering you on—can help you on your journey dramatically.
Takeaway: Find a mentor who can help you stay accountable and navigate your path to success. It takes a village, as they say.
- Adopt a High-Performance Mindset
Whether in sports or business, mindset is everything. Start with a clear vision of what success looks like to you, understand your purpose, and manage your time wisely. With only 168 hours in a week, it’s important to make each hour count.
Takeaway: Stay focussed on your outcomes and purpose to maximise your productivity. Beyoncé has 24 hours in a day just like you; imagine what you could achieve with your time.
- Embrace Setbacks as Opportunities
Challenges are inevitable. My early career in radio was filled with hurdles, but those moments shaped my resilience and gave me valuable lessons I still lean on to this day. It’s not about avoiding failure but learning how to bounce back stronger.
Takeaway: View setbacks as learning experiences that can build your character and fortitude. You’ll be stronger for it.
- Invest in Mentorship
One of the best investments I’ve made in my career has been mentorship. A good mentor not only guides you but also challenges your thinking and helps you identify blind spots. If you’re looking to elevate your brand or career, find someone who can push you beyond your comfort zone.
Takeaway: The right mentor can unlock your potential and help you achieve your goals. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it definitely wasn’t built alone.
- The Magic is in the Process
Real transformation happens in the day-to-day grind. Focus on consistency and commitment to the journey, and the results will follow. Not every day will feel productive, but if you commit yourself to pushing ahead little by little every single day, you’ll be able to look back with pride in how far you’ve come.
Takeaway: Stay committed to the process of growth and improvement; that’s where you’ll find true success. Remember, all good things take time; it won’t happen overnight.
A Challenge for 2025
As we look toward 2025, I challenge you to think about your goals for the coming year and harness a high-performance mindset. Remember to risk more than what feels safe, care more than what seems wise, dream bigger than what feels practical, and expect more than what seems possible.
Thank you to Julie Dormand and everyone involved in making the Friday Lunch Club such an inspiring event. Here’s to the exciting journey ahead—let’s break through to new heights together!
Are you ready to take the first step towards your 2025 goals today? Write down three ambitious objectives and share them with someone who can hold you accountable. This simple exercise will set the course for your success in 2025!
