Why You’re Not Hitting Your Goals—And What Succeed Says to Do About It

We’ve all set goals in life—whether it’s hitting the gym, leveling up in business, or spending more time with friends and family. But let’s face it: most of us fall short. Why? Because goal attainment isn’t just about motivation—it’s about mindset, strategy, and consistent action over a period of time.

Dr. Heidi Grant Halvorson’s book Succeed: How We Can Reach Our Goals isn’t your average motivational fluff. It’s a scientifically grounded roadmap for creating actionable goals that stick—no matter how audacious goals or future goals may seem.

The Real Secret to Achieving Goals - Self-Control

According to Halvorson, the biggest difference between people who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent or resources—it’s self-control. Whether you're chasing ambitious goals in your business or seeking to improve your personal life, self-discipline is the deciding factor.

And the good news? Like a muscle, self-control can be built with repetition and effort on a regular basis. Over time, that practice turns small habits into massive results.

The What vs. The Why - Creating Focused Momentum

Halvorson emphasizes the need to distinguish between the “what” and the “why” of your goals. While understanding your purpose is important, it’s the what—the daily, actionable goals—that keep you moving forward when things get hard.

For example, if your life vision includes running a marathon, your reasonable goals might include daily 3-mile runs or weekly meal prepping. Without breaking that exciting goal into tangible steps, your dream stays just that—a dream.

This structure is what separates lofty intentions from actual progress, especially for people struggling with a lack of goals or clarity.

The Power of Environmental Triggers

One of the most practical tools Halvorson introduces is the use of environmental cues. Want to improve your health or business performance? Set up your space to support it.

Passing a gym or seeing your running shoes by the door can remind you to get moving. Likewise, a visible vision board or sticky note on your monitor can reignite commitment to your future goals. Small things, done consistently, become big things.

Identity Goals vs. Performance Goals

Halvorson defines two core types of goals: performance goals and identity goals. Performance goals are outcome-based—like hitting aggressive sales goals or earning a promotion. Identity goals are about becoming the kind of person who naturally reaches those results.

You're not just building a business—you’re becoming a strategic, confident entrepreneur. You're not just eating clean—you’re becoming someone who values long-term health. These subtle mindset shifts are powerful because they shape behavior over a long period of time.

Promotion vs. Prevention Goals - Different Paths, Same Destination

Are you chasing something amazing or avoiding something awful?

Promotion goals are about gaining something—like doubling revenue or finally launching that new product. Prevention goals are about avoiding losses—staying ahead of competitors or avoiding burnout. Knowing your motivation style helps you set up ambitious goals that fit your drive and mental energy.

Make Your Goals Personal (Or They Won’t Stick)

The more your goals reflect your own values and desires, the more likely you are to achieve them. Intrinsic motivation is what helps people show up, even on tough days. The difference between people who stick to their plan and those who don’t? Ownership.

And remember: you don’t need a complete roadmap to begin—just the average time and attention to take the next right step. Whether it’s a reasonable goal like drinking more water or an exciting goal like launching a new business line, it all counts.

If-Then Planning - A Simple Trick for Consistency

Halvorson suggests using “If-Then” planning to anticipate obstacles. For example, “If I feel too tired to work out after work, then I’ll walk during lunch.” This keeps you proactive instead of reactive.

She also introduces the H.A.L.T. principle—Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired—as warning signs that your goals are at risk. Spotting these states early can save your progress before it slips.

Get Clear, Get Focused, Get Moving!

Whether you’re overcoming a lack of goals, chasing audacious goals, or planning future goals, Succeed delivers science-backed strategies to keep you on track. It’s not about perfection—it’s about showing up on a regular basis, one step at a time.

Ready to turn your goals into reality—not just resolutions? Stop setting goals you forget in a week. Let’s create actionable goals that stick, grow your business, and transform your life. Join the Limitless Leaders Club for proven strategies, or Hire your Marketing Sidekick and start crushing those ambitious goals—starting today. Your future goals aren’t waiting. Why are you?