By Hunter Goldfarb, MSW, LCSW

Feeling Stuck Setting New Year Goals? You’re Not Alone.

If you’ve ever set big New Year’s resolutions only to drop them by February… welcome to the club.

It happens to almost everyone, and honestly, it’s usually not because we’re “unmotivated.” Most of the time, it’s because our goals just aren’t realistic for where we’re currently at.

That’s where SMART goals come in. They’re like a friendly guide—keeping your goals doable and clear instead of overwhelming.

What Are SMART Goals (and Why Are They So Helpful)?

SMART goals are a framework to help you set goals that actually stick. Here’s what they stand for:

• Specific: You know exactly what you’re trying to do.

• Measurable: You can track whether it’s happening.

• Achievable: Realistic for your life right now.

• Relevant: Actually matters to your wellness journey. (Does this goal match my needs and values?)

• Time-bound: Has a timeline so it doesn’t drag on. (When should this goal be completed?)

Using this system helps turn “I want to be healthier this year” into something you can actually stick to.

For example:

• “I will practice one meditation daily for a month to help reduce my stress.”

• “I will exercise Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for 30 minutes for one month to improve my physical and mental wellbeing.”

“But I Use SMART Goals and Still Quit…”

Totally normal. It doesn’t mean you’re failing, it just means the goal needs adjusting.

Let’s say you set a goal to go to the gym five days a week…but you haven’t consistently exercised in years. That’s a huge jump. If you find you’re only going once or twice, don’t throw the goal away, just adjust it to meet you where you are at.

Try starting with 1–2 days a week, give it a month, and see how you feel. Maybe week 5 is when adding a third day makes sense. There’s zero shame in starting smaller. In fact, it’s often the smartest thing you can do.

Adjusting doesn’t mean you’re giving up, it means you’re working with yourself instead of against yourself. Getting 10% closer to the best version of yourself every week is better than getting 0% closer.

Be Kind to Yourself Along the Way

As you reshape your habits this year, remember:

• You’re human

• You’re learning

• You’re allowed to ask for support

• And the journey should feel good—not punishing

Celebrate your small wins. They matter. A lot.

Need Resolution Inspiration?

A few gentle-but-powerful ideas:

• Add more movement you actually enjoy

• Practice gratitude or simple affirmations

• Strengthen friendships or social connections

• Try mindfulness, breathing exercises, or short meditations

Choose what feels exciting or nourishing— not what you think you’re “supposed” to do.

Need Support As You Start This New Chapter?

If you’re craving guidance, structure, or encouragement, Exceptional Wellness is here to help. You don’t have to figure out your wellness journey alone. Let’s build something sustainable together, one small step at a time.

Are you ready to take your first step? Reach out to us.

Outside of her clinical work, Hunter values time with friends and family, enjoys nature walks and boardwalk strolls, and finds balance through gratitude, cooking, and staying active at the gym.

Check out Hunter’s professional bio here!

Email: info@exceptionalwellnesscounseling.com

Phone: (908) 415-2042