Why Now Is NOT The Right Time To Reset Your Goals & Routine

Here’s why goal setting shouldn’t be your priority. At least right now.

You may have seen our advice on setting goals for the New Year and our whopping list of 80 easy New Years’ resolutions to make. So why are we telling you to not set any goals right now…The heck!?

Hear us out.

If you’re reading this, it’s very likely you’re a student. We can almost guarantee that you’re buried in revision, assignments, and the stress that comes with those things. If you add the pressure of goal-setting for the year, there’s a chance it could tip you over the edge.

We’re not saying you shouldn’t set any goals ever. On the contrary. We just don’t think it’s right to set them at this moment in time. Here’s why.

It’s exam period

As we said, it’s exam period, and you have far more important things to do right now. Your goal of mastering a gourmet recipe or achieving your next PB can wait until later.

It’s cold and dark outside

Who honestly wants to exercise or go outside when it’s cold and dark? Okay, maybe a few of us very disciplined lot will (please tell us your secrets!). Be kind to yourself. It’s a tough season and you don’t want to force yourself to do something you’ll just feel sore about later. Literally.

No one cares if you haven’t set goals

We’re naturally inclined to meet other people’s expectations. Really ask yourself why that is?

People will be far too focused on their own. And if you are greeted with mockery, just know it’s usually to inflate their own sense of pride and has nothing to do with you.

It removes the pressure

With everything going on, do you need to add more to your plate? We’ll let you answer that one.

By setting goals during a busy period, you’re more likely to multi-task far too much and set yourself up for failure.

You can set goals at any time of the year

Who made the rule you must set goals in the New Year?

No one.

It’s a status quo you don’t have to follow. Make your own rules and set goals when you feel ready. This could be after your exams, your birthday, basically any time that works best for you.

Step into the new year without baggage

You’ve got enough on. Step into the New Year sans the baggage from the last year. Obviously, if you have the spike in motivation to plan your year ahead then do so. But don’t at the expense of your wellbeing.

If you absolutely must set goals…

Make them as realistic as possible and don’t bite off more than you can chew. If there’s a marathon next week, the chances are you won’t be able to complete it. But if you have an exam next week, starting your revision now can set you up for success. Some of the best study planner apps out there can really help with this.

You really can achieve what you set your mind to. But do so when you’re out of this busy period and can devote more time to your goals without the stress. If you’re on it with your schedule and want to set goals then go on right ahead, just tell us how you stay organised, please!

Will you plan your goals or give it a miss until another time? We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Student Beans Twitter account.