Episode 35 | Reframing Unfinished Goals

by Niamh Moynihan on February 13, 2025

Goal Setting Motivation

Episode Summary

As the end of the year approaches, it’s easy to feel disappointed by goals not being met or projects not being started.

In this episode, Niamh introduces the power of the word “yet” to reshape how we view our unfinished tasks.

By adding “yet” to statements like “I haven’t done this” or “I haven’t met that goal,” we shift from a defeated mindset to one that emphasises potential, progress, and future opportunity.

Key Takeaways:

Embrace “Yet”:

Adding “yet” at the end of a statement transforms it from a dead end to a stepping stone.
Instead of “I didn’t start the project,” say “I haven’t started the project yet”—implying there’s still time or possibility.

Two Scenarios for Using ‘Yet’:

Goals Not Started:
1. If you have never begun a project or habit you intended to, adding “yet” allows you to reassess its priority.
2. Decide if you still want it on next year’s agenda or let it go guilt-free.
Goals Not Fully Achieved:
1. If you made progress but didn’t reach your target, “yet” acknowledges improvement.
2. Recognise the steps you’ve already taken and identify what’s needed to close the gap in the new year.

Shifting Focus and Mindset:

“Yet” encourages curiosity and problem-solving rather than self-blame.
It prompts questions like, “What’s missing?” or “How can I adjust the timeline?” rather than concluding failure.

End-of-Year Review:

Reflect on what you planned to do, what didn’t start, and what started but didn’t finish.
Apply “yet” to keep options open and potentially bring those goals into 2025 with a fresh perspective.

Practical Tips from the Episode:

Language Matters: Try adding “yet” to any unfinished goal to remind yourself it’s not over.
Reevaluate Priorities: Use the year-end reflection to see if goals remain relevant. If not, release them without guilt.
Focus on Progress: Instead of zeroing in on what’s missing, acknowledge how far you’ve come and what minimal changes could lead to success next year.

Until next time, stay well and have a better workday!