If you want to play this game at the highest level, setting ambitious goals isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. But let’s get real: goals only work when they are powerful enough to light a fire under you and meaningful enough to keep you moving forward. And here’s the kicker: the reward has to matter to you on a deeper level; it’s got to be something that makes you feel alive.
Make Your Goals Big Enough to Be Worth the Effort
The truth is, small goals are easy to ignore. They don’t demand your best self or inspire any real change. You know what I’m talking about—that half-hearted attempt to “try and be better” at something, or the vague promise to “maybe make more sales.”
But when you set ambitious goals that are big enough to make you a little nervous? Now you’re onto something. I’m talking about goals that give you that adrenaline rush, where the stakes are high and the payoff is even higher.
For example, let’s say you’ve decided to increase your revenue by 50% in the next year. That’s not small potatoes, and you know it’s going to take some serious focus, hard work, and discipline. But here’s the magic—just setting a goal like this forces you to think differently. It demands more of you, and you’re going to rise to meet it because there’s no way you’re going to back down from a challenge you created for yourself.
Break it Down, But Keep Your Eyes on the Big Picture
If your goal feels too big, let’s not get overwhelmed here. Chunk it down into smaller milestones. But don’t lose sight of the ultimate target.
Say your goal is to double your client base in six months. That’s huge, and maybe even a little intimidating. But you don’t need to make it happen in one leap. Start by breaking it into monthly or even weekly steps. Every milestone you hit gets you closer to the big picture.
Anchor Yourself with a Reward that Matters
Now let’s talk about rewards. I’m not just talking about the vague “pat yourself on the back” or “take a day off.” I’m talking about a reward that genuinely lights you up.
For me, setting an ambitious goal usually means I’ve got something tangible in mind. One year, I set a target for myself, and I decided that if I hit it, I’d finally go on that high-end vacation I’d always dreamed of but could never quite justify. Another time, I promised myself an upgrade to my workspace that would make working more efficient and enjoyable. These were rewards that meant something—rewards that motivated me to push through the tough days because I knew what was on the other side.
Think about what does it for you. Is it a weekend away with your family? Is it investing in a course or conference that will make you better at what you do? Or maybe it’s a new tech gadget you’ve had your eye on. Make it specific, make it something that brings you joy, and don’t be afraid to think big.
Hold Yourself Accountable
Ambitious goals don’t get met in the privacy of your mind. You’ve got to be accountable, and that means telling someone—anyone—who will hold you to your word. Maybe it’s a mentor, maybe it’s a close friend, or even a business partner.
In my experience, just knowing I’ve put my goal out there makes me work harder. There’s no slacking off because I’ve got people in my life who know what I’m shooting for, and they’ll call me out if they don’t see me making moves. Find those people, and make them part of your journey.
Embrace the Grind and Remember Why You Started
Here’s the reality: once the initial excitement fades, you’re going to hit walls. You’ll question why you set this goal in the first place, and maybe you’ll even think about quitting. And that’s okay. It’s normal.
In those moments, reconnect with your “why.” Why did you set this goal? Why is it important? Why does it matter to you?
It’s this “why” that fuels you when the going gets tough. When you have a clear purpose, the grind isn’t just bearable—it becomes part of the process, something you’re willing to endure because the outcome is worth it.
Celebrate the Small Wins
On your way to big goals, small wins matter. Recognize them, celebrate them, and use them to fuel your journey forward.
If you managed to hit a monthly milestone, take a moment to acknowledge it. These small victories remind you that you’re on track, and they build momentum. It’s easier to keep going when you know you’re making progress, so keep track of every single step you take toward your big goal.
Don’t Just Meet Your Goals—Raise the Bar
Once you hit that big goal, don’t just pat yourself on the back and call it a day. The best time to set a new goal is when you’ve just achieved one. Ride that momentum and look for the next mountain to climb.
Remember, the only limits are the ones you set for yourself. So dream big, stay motivated, and make it happen. Every goal you set and every reward you earn is a testament to your growth, your hard work, and your dedication. Now get out there, set some ambitious goals, and start working toward rewards that make it all worth it.
