Between the school runs, meal preps, and heaping laundry, finding time to set goals can feel like a luxury.
But what if there’s a way to set mom goals that not only align with your core values but also offer high-impact results, saving you time and energy?
Sounds too good to be true, but such a setting method does exist. If you’re not familiar with this method of setting your goals, you are in for a treat.
So, what is this simple yet effective goal-setting method?
It’s called value-based goal setting and it will change the way you think about goals.
I’ll guide you through the process, so you can stick to them and achieve them.
In this post, you will learn what value-based goal setting is, why you, a busy mom, need goals based on your personal values, real-life examples, and a step-by-step guide to setting your own value-based goals.
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What is a Value-based Goal?
A Value-based goal is rooted in your core beliefs, priorities, and what truly matters to you. Unlike traditional goal-setting methods that focus solely on external achievements or societal expectations, value-based goals align with your deepest values and aspirations.
The best goals to set are value-based goals. You tap into intrinsic motivation that propels you forward even in the face of challenges. These goals have an impact on your overall happiness and sense of fulfillment because they are personally connected to who you are as an individual.
Why Moms Need Value-based Goals
Every mom knows that her time is precious. When you align your goals with your values, you can be assured that your effort will be meaningful and centered. Time is never wasted on meaningful and aligned goals.
Also, when you strive for meaningful goals, you inspire the people around you like your family and friends while nurturing your own individual growth. This is both beneficial and transformative.
You understand the importance of time. Setting goals that don’t align with your values is like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and often leads you back to the beginning to start all over again. But when you set goals based on your values, you’re setting yourself up for success from the get-go.
The Power of Aligning Goals with Values
When your goals are rooted in your values, they become non-negotiable. They’re not just tasks on a to-do list; they’re reflections of who you are and what you stand for. This alignment increases your chances of success exponentially compared to other goal-setting methods.
Ever set a New Year’s resolution only to abandon it by February? That’s often because the goal wasn’t tied to a value. Without that connection, it’s easy to lose motivation. This is a common pitfall of not aligning goals with values.
When your goals reflect your values, you’re more driven, more committed, and more likely to see them through. That’s what motivation is all about, making progress.
12 Value-based Goals Examples
Goals can be big or small, whichever you choose, make sure that they are aligned with your values and are attainable.
SMART goals can help you determine if they are attainable for you. Learn more about SMART goals here.
You probably have many values and are not sure where to start. Here are some examples that might resonate with you.
If you’re trying this method for the first time, feel free to use one of these from the list of goals to set for yourself.
Click to toggle the examples below.
- Goal #1: Walk for 10 to 15 minutes every day – 5 days a week.
- Goal #2: Drink 1 extra glass of water and add another serving of vegetables every day.
- Goal #3: Meal Plan every Sunday using an easy-to-use app like eMeals.
- Goal #1: Dedicate one evening during the week for family bonding without any distractions.
- Goal #2: Research ways to increase patience and listening skills.
- Goal #3: Learn a new parenting skill or improve an existing one.
- Goal #1: Schedule a 10 to 20-minute daily meditation every morning or evening Monday-Friday.
- Goal #2: Start an evening skincare ritual to improve the look and feel of my skin.
- Goal #3: Read 2-5 pages from my book every day. Reflect on what I read at the end of the week.
- Goal #1: Enroll in an online course related to a hobby or passion once every six months.
- Goal #2: Learn a new language by practicing 5 common words and phrases every week.
- Goal #3: Assess your habits and choose one you want to change.
- Goal #1: Save a specific amount each month for an emergency fund.
- Goal #2: Find a part-time job to supplement household income.
- Goal #3: Start investing by depositing money into a high-yield savings account.
- Goal #1: Volunteer at your child’s school or a local charity once a month.
- Goal #2: Schedule a coffee date with a friend once a month for a year. Plan a trip together.
- Goal #3: Schedule visits and calls to family once a week.
- Goal #1: Reduce screen time dependency by setting specific times for screen use.
- Goal #2: Build better habits. Make the bed every morning and floss every evening.
- Goal #3: Never be overwhelmed by laundry again. Do one load of laundry daily at 7 p.m.
- Goal #1: Declutter one drawer, cupboard, or closet every week for one month.
- Goal #2: Declutter files and folders on the computer weekly.
- Goal #3: Declutter thoughts by journaling every day for 5 minutes.
- Goal #1: Wake up earlier by slowly increasing wake-up time by five minutes every day as part of your morning routine.
- Goal #2: Create an evening routine to streamline weekday mornings.
- Goal #3: Simplify your cleaning routine by creating a daily cleaning checklist.
- Goal #1: Manage negative thinking by writing it down in my journal.
- Goal #2: Practice gratitude by writing one sentence or 3 things I’m grateful for daily.
- Goal #3: Practice looking for opportunities daily. When there’s an obstacle, ask “Where’s the opportunity to be had?”
- Goal #1: Create a 1-year plan to leave the workplace to be a full-time mom.
- Goal #2: Create a 1-year plan to re-enter the workplace after being a SAHM.
- Goal #3: Create a 6-month plan to work remotely from home.
- Goal #1: Plan a 2-week trip with the family.
- Goal #2: Plan a solo weekend trip.
- Goal #3: Create a 1-year plan to work abroad.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Value-based Goals
- Identify Your Values: Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you. Is it family? Health? Community? Write them down.
- Brainstorm Potential Goals: For each value, think of a goal that would help you honor that value more in your life.
- Prioritize: You can’t do everything at once. Pick 1-3 goals to focus on initially.
- Break It Down: Large goals can sometimes feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps or milestones. Use S.M.A.R.T goals so they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework adds structure and accountability to your goals, increasing your chances of success.
- Schedule It: Just like you’d schedule a doctor’s appointment, schedule time for your goals. If you don’t have a timeline to reach your goals, it will be easy to defer action. That’s a fast way to kill your goals.
- Review and Adjust: It’s important to regularly review your progress towards your goals. This will help you stay motivated and allow you to make any necessary adjustments along the way. It’s okay to adjust your goals as needed. The key is to keep them aligned with your values.
- Celebrate: Every small win is a step closer to your bigger goal. Celebrate your progress no matter how small. Rewards can be a powerful motivator, encouraging you to keep pushing forward.
Final thoughts: Value-Driven Goals Offer Real Impact
With value-based goal setting, you can channel your time and energy even more effectively.
Imagine waking up each day excited to pursue goals that are truly meaningful to you. Goals that are aligned with your core values and that will help you live your best life.
That’s the power of value-based goal setting.
So, take a moment to reflect on what’s truly important to you. What do you want to achieve in your life? Once you have a clear understanding of your values, start setting goals that will help you achieve them.
Here’s a recap of the steps to set your own value-based goals:
- Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you by identifying your values.
- For each value, think of a goal that would help you honor that value more in your life.
- Pick 1-3 goals to focus to start.
- Break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps or milestones.
- Just like you’d schedule a doctor’s appointment, schedule time for your goals.
- To stay motivated, reflect, and make adjustments where necessary.
- Every small win is a step closer to your bigger goal so don’t forget to celebrate.
Remember, it’s not about setting more goals; it’s about setting the right goals. So, focus on your values and set goals that will help you live your best life.
Hi, I’m Melanie. I’m the woman behind Mommy Life Strategies. Here you will discover ways to manage your time more efficiently, how to create positive daily habits that stick, mindset exercises that energize, and health & wellness tips that work even for the busiest moms.