Happy New Year, Diamond Effect Podcast listeners.

In today’s first episode of 2026, we’re talking about goals—but not in the fluffy, “new year, new you” way. We’re focusing on the mindset that actually helps you follow through past January… and definitely past February.

Because setting goals isn’t just about writing down a number. It’s about becoming the kind of leader who can stay consistent, make better decisions, and keep moving forward even when the plan gets messy.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why the New Year is a powerful moment to set goals (even if you don’t “wait for the perfect time”)
• The 3 categories of goals that keep you motivated and grounded
• How to stop letting timelines sabotage your belief and momentum
• Why progress goals (KPIs) are the real secret to achieving big outcomes
• How to build the habits, systems, and mindset that make consistency easier

The 3 types of goals to set (and how to think about each):

1. Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs)
   Your 3–10 year vision that fuels you. These goals help you focus less on “how” and more on who you need to become.
2. Short-Term Goals (Annual goals)
   Your 12-month target (revenue, number of clients, etc.) that should feel ambitious—but still believable enough that you can stand behind it and take action.
3. Progress Goals (KPIs)
   The weekly/daily actions that keep you on track—so you can measure what’s working, adjust quickly, and celebrate consistent progress.

A mindset shift I want you to take into 2026:

If you don’t set goals because you “just want to see what happens,” you’re leaving your future to chance.

And if you don’t set goals because you “don’t want to be disappointed,” that’s not protection—it’s avoidance.

The real work is building a healthy relationship with goals: using them to guide you, not judge you.

Mentioned in this episode:

• EP # 231 (Dec 12, 2025) - From Idea to Action: The Small Business CEO’s Guide to Making Things Happen in 2026
• EP # 213 (Aug 1, 2025) - Stop Playing It Safe with Your Dreams: Why 10-Year Goals Should Scare You Into Action
• EP # 130 (Jan 5, 202$) - How to Achieve Your Goals

Want help planning your 2026 goals?

If you’re listening before January 13, I’d love to invite you to my complimentary online event:

Design Your Success 2026

Jan 13–14, 2:00–5:00 PM EEST

We’ll set your 2026 goal, identify your top 3 focus areas, and map out the actions you’ll take weekly and monthly to make it real—without overwhelm.

To join, email me at: maggie@stairwaytoleadership.com