Achieving Your Goals One Quarter at a Time: How are You Doing?

The year is flying by — we’re already nearing the end of Q1.

Depending on the day, time can feel like it’s racing ahead or dragging along. I try to measure time by goals and accomplishments, while also giving myself some grace. Real change is hard in the short term, but over time, the progress can be significant.

Reflect on Your Goals Each Quarter

Quarterly check-ins are a simple way to stay intentional. They give you a moment to pause, see what’s working, and make small adjustments before too much time slips by. That will help you stay focused on your goals and keep moving forward.

With the year already a quarter underway, I took a moment to revisit my goals and check on my own progress. For inspiration, I looked back at this post.

Personal Development, One Quarter at a Time

The good news? If you’re not as far along as you’d like, there’s still plenty of time left in the year. Ask yourself:

Have you read a good book?
Have you tried something new?
Are you up to date on calling donors?
Did you set a big, meaningful goal?
Have you started learning a new skill?
Are you taking time to laugh most days?

Tips and Tools to Stay on Track

If you answered “no” to most of these, don’t be hard on yourself. Instead:

Pick one or two areas and make a simple plan to get back on track.
Find an accountability partner.
Use an app to track and measure your progress.

Seek Out New Sources of Inspiration

For fresh ideas, I’ve been listening to the TED Talks Daily podcast. Episodes range from 10 minutes to an hour, and I tune in a few times a week while walking or driving.

Learn New Skills Throughout the Year

To push yourself to learn new skills, consider signing up for classes — it builds both structure and accountability.

This year, I’m enrolled in three:

An advanced public speaking course, where I’m developing a new keynote.
Piano lessons (still a beginner!).
Strength training (for non-athletic women).

The good news is that here’s still plenty of time this year to make meaningful progress.

My Best Advice to You?

Start small, stay consistent, and don’t underestimate what you can accomplish over the next few months.