How I Made 2023 My Best Year Ever

Looking Back on 2023


I've been a goal setter for over 30 years.  Sometimes I succeed at attaining goals and sometimes I don't.  I've had years where I checked off one or two items on my goal list, and years where nothing seemed to work.  But this year, wow!  Did the stars line up in my favor, or did I do things differently?  As I reflect back on the year, I think it's important for me to retrace my steps and document what worked so I can make 2024 just as successful (or more) as 2023.


New Year's Resolutions versus Goals

As the New Year strikes, folks talk about their New Year's Resolutions.  Do they set them, what's on their list, what do they want to start doing, or what do they want to stop doing.  And the most important point seems to get conveniently neglected.  Did they stick to them, or did they give up by Quitter's Day? What's the difference between a New Year's resolution and a goal?  Here's a simple answer to that question.  A resolution is an idea we wish would happen, and a goal is a wish with a deadline.

Here are a few reasons New Year's resolutions don't work -

  • We don't have a strong enough "why".
  • We don't have a plan.
  • We don't keep track of our results.
  • We don't ask for help.
  • We don't have anyone keeping us accountable.

If you're serious about changing something in your life, use the S.M.A.R.T. goal formula

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Attainable
  • Realistic
  • Timely

Instead of "I want to lose weight" (resolution) your S.M.A.R.T. goal would be stated like this:

"On or before June 30, 2024, I will attain my ideal weight of 138 pounds".  

Do you see how the goal checks all the boxes, where the resolution is vague?


If You Focus On Everything, You Focus On Nothing

In year's past, I'd create a long list of goals, and take the time to meticulously break them down into micro steps using the S.M.A.R.T. goal formula.  In 2023, I tested a new process.  I studied my list of goals, and asked myself "what ONE thing on this list will change my life when it's completed?"  I gave myself grace to put a pin in the goals that aren't life changing.  I prioritized the ONE GOAL that I believed would change my life and create the space I needed to create the big, bold, life of my dreams. 


What ONE Change Would Change Your Life?

Want to learn more about succeeding at achieving your goals?  Over the next several days, I'll be announcing a free masterclass to help you make 2024 your best year ever. This is my gift to my loyal followers.  My intention is to give you the support you need to accomplish ONE big, hairy goal in 2024.

So if you have plans to accomplish a life-changing goal this year – or if you simply want to start off the year with the structure, support, and accountability you need to make massive progress toward creating a life you love – I encourage you to participate in my free masterclass.  The lessons are short, sweet, and succinct.  Minimal time and zero money commitment equals zero excuses!


The Secret sauce Is...

So, what's the secret you ask?  Laser focus!  Focusing on my ONE B.H.A.G. (big, hairy, audacious goal) and achieving it made attaining other goals on my list possible. Want to get on the winning side of your goals?  Join me as I kick off the Make 2024 Your Best Year Ever masterclass.  It's totally free, and my gift to you!  To be the first to know about the Masterclass, sign up below.  I'll be announcing dates very soon.  If you can't attend live, no worries, I've got you!  Sign up to get on my VIP list and you'll get a recording and the free Best Life Ever Goals Journal that accompanies the workshop.

Here's to a transformational year!


About the author 

Therese Nicklas

Therese Nicklas is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Certified Money Coach(CMC)®, and Certified Success Principles™ Coach. She specializes in helping high-achieving women create a life and career they love. By empowering them with smart strategies, women create "True Wealth" - a fulfilling life of purpose and unlimited possibilities. She's coached clients to create an exit strategy from corporate so they can either retire, launch a business or a passion project. “True wealth – true financial freedom – is being free to focus on the things that matter most to you – what money can’t buy.”

Is your job causing burnout?

Maybe, something needs to change... The Ultimate Transition Checklist is a simple tool created to help you sort out the problem in the comfort and privacy of your own home.  Learn the root cause so you know with confidence what you need to change.  End burnout today.  You deserve a career and life that lights you up from the inside out!

Download the Ultimate Transition Checklist today!

Fill out the form | Get the guide | Get clear on your next move