The occasion of a new year is the perfect time to reflect and set intentions for the year to come. Some call them New Year’s Resolutions; others simply declare “2026 is going to be my year!”
But if you have ever found yourself wondering why the goals you want to achieve never seem to become a reality or why it is so hard to remain consistent after the first few weeks, you are not alone. It’s not because your goals are unattainable, but rather, they require a strategic approach and, sometimes, a little support. Here at Co-op Bank, we want to come along with you on your journey to accomplishing all your goals, whether they are financial, travel, academic or in pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.
So, let’s talk about goals.
In its simplest form, goals are what we want to achieve in our lives in a variety of areas, such as finances, career, relationships, education, health and lifestyle. These goals help you to create a long-term vision of how you want to see your life improve. Is it necessary to set goals? No, but research has shown that setting goals, and seeing them through, helps people accomplish incredible things. If you have been feeling stuck or unmotivated about certain circumstances in your life, keep reading.
In 2026, we are aiming for efficiency when it comes to creating and tracking goals. And, just to be clear, whether you are thinking about your goals in January, February or June, it’s not too late. So, let’s get started by setting some smart goals.
S.M.A.R.T Goals
Setting successful goals requires more than writing a list in a journal or on your Notes app. You also need a plan of action. This is where the concept of setting S.M.A.R.T goals comes in. And, no, S.M.A.R.T goals are not just for business operations; they can be applied to your personal life as well.
S.M.A.R.T goals are goals that are:
Specific, because vague goals are harder to commit to.
Measurable, because we need a way to track our progress.
Achievable, based on our circumstances and resources.
Relevant, because they need to fit in with our vision for the future.
Time bound, with a timeline and due date to keep us accountable.
Take a look at this example:
“Save money”
You have probably written this down before. But “save money” is vague and open-ended. How much do you want to save? What are you saving for? Do you have a timeline?
Let’s try this instead:
“Save $5,000 for emergency savings fund by the end of the year”
This goal is specific; we know how much and for what purpose and there is a timeline. The next step is to establish how you will save $5,000, which requires a review of your current financial situation. If a fixed monthly deduction is manageable based on your income and expenses, then consider setting up a scheduled payment on eBanking to your designated Co-op Bank savings account. Are you an impulsive spender? Now is a good time to get it under control.
Here’s another example:
If one of your goals is to live a healthier lifestyle this year, start your goal planning by identifying what a healthier lifestyle looks like for you, whether that is going to the gym three times a week, eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, walking 10,000 steps a day, or having a regular self-care day.
Tracking Your Goals
Once you have established the goal and outlined the plan of action to achieve it, then you can start tracking your progress. You can do this in a journal, using an app (there’s an app for everything!), or with an accountability partner. Schedule regular goal check-ins and give yourself a progress report. This will help you determine if any changes are necessary. Maybe you encountered an unexpected expense or an injury, so you will need to adjust the approach.
Another great way to help you stay on track is to record the milestones you pass along the way. If, as part of your healthier lifestyle goal, you have been walking every day, then one of your milestones can be to participate in the Pump it Up Family Fun Walk. If you’re already a Pump it Up regular, you can work towards completing the challenge route or finishing in a faster time.Whether you saved your first $400 or lost 12 pounds, celebrate all the small wins and remember your friends at Co-op Bank are cheering you on all the way!
