Behind On Your Goals? Here's What to Do Next!

We’re officially in the second quarter of the year. Can you believe it?

Signs of spring are all around us—a season of renewal, possibility, and fresh energy. But for many people, this time of year also brings the realization that maybe we’re not as far along on our goals as we hoped we’d be. Maybe you set big intentions back in January, but now it's April… and instead of feeling energized, you feel behind.

If that’s you, take a deep breath. You’re not failing, and it’s not too late. Sometimes the plan just needs to shift. It’s easy to start having doubts and questioning everything when progress is slow. You might be wondering: Why am I not where I thought I’d be? What am I doing wrong?Why am I so unmotivated?

But here’s the truth: slow progress does not mean no progress. And hitting a roadblock or not being as far along as you had hoped to be doesn’t mean the goal is wrong—it might just mean you need to do something different.

When to Consider a Shift

Making a shift, or creating a different action plan in working toward your goals, isn’t quitting. It’s smart. It’s recognizing that what you’re currently doing isn’t working, and it’s time to adapt and refine your approach. This is a great time to reflect on the progress, or lack thereof, that you’ve made during the first quarter of the year. 

Here are some signs it may be time to consider creating a new and different action plan: 

• You’re working hard, but feel drained instead of fulfilled.

• You’ve been consistent but still not getting the results you want.

• You’re stuck because you are waiting for things to be “just right” before moving forward.

• You’re doing what used to work, but it’s not working anymore.

  
  

Here’s a framework to help you course-correct without abandoning your goals:

1. Revisit Your “Why”

Why did you set this goal in the first place? Reconnecting with the real reason behind it can reignite your passion and give you clarity on how to move forward.

2. Assess What’s Working—And What’s Not

Reflect on what actions have helped, what habits or beliefs are holding you back, and what would feel more aligned right now?

3. Let Go of the “All or Nothing” Trap

Just because your original plan or timeline didn’t work out doesn’t mean the whole thing is a bust. Could you scale it back, simplify it, or break it into smaller milestones? Create a new timeline for the next three months and post it where you can see it every day.

4. Be Willing to Try Something New

This is the sweet spot where growth happens. It’s easy to continue to do what’s comfortable. Maybe it’s time to try a new strategy that is out of your comfort zone. Consider a mentor or creating a better system. 

This journey in achieving your goals was never meant to follow a straight line.

Growth often happens in the in-between—during the quiet seasons, the pivots, the moments when things don’t go as planned. What feels like a delay might actually be setting the stage for something more aligned. A setback doesn’t mean you’re off course—it might just mean you're being guided to take a different route.

Remember, you’re not behind. You’re learning, growing, and evolving.

This is where clarity begins—and your next step takes shape.