“One of my goals for 2025 is to lower my golf handicap,” he said, his tone carrying a hint of apology.
A good friend shared this with me earlier in the week during a conversation about our goals for the new year. He had already mentioned a professional goal he was working on within his company, and this golf goal was something more personal.
I challenged him—not on the goal itself, but on the apologetic way he presented it. It felt like he was slightly embarrassed to say it out loud, especially in front of the group of guys we were with. When I asked him about it, he immediately understood where I was going.
“It’s not that I care that much about my golf handicap,” he explained. “What I know is this: if my handicap is improving, it means I’m spending more time at the golf course—and good things happen there. My kids love to golf, so it’s family time. It’s also quality time with friends, and I end up doing a lot of business on the golf course. If my handicap is dropping, it means other things I care about are happening at the same time.”
There’s so much to unpack in this! Here are three highlights…
First, NEVER apologize for your goals or what you want. Whether it’s lowering your golf handicap, increasing your income, or feeling better when you look in the mirror, your goals are yours. It’s not anyone else’s job to determine whether your goals are valuable. Get clear on what you want in life, align it with your purpose and core values, and own it.
Second, understanding the “why” behind your goals is essential. As my friend shared, his goal isn’t just about golf—it’s about what time on the golf course represents for him. It’s family time, quality moments with friends, and even a chance to do business. For him, golf is a needle-moving activity. And even if his “why” were simply to improve in a sport he loves, that would be enough. It’s not for anyone else to judge.
Finally, there’s incredible power in sharing your goals out loud with trusted friends or allies—people who will hold you accountable and help keep you on track. If you don’t have those people in your life, go find them. If you do, take a moment to let them know how much they mean to you. Together, you can make 2025 the year where you all reach your goals—including the ones that feel a little scary to say out loud.
The Takeaway
Your goals are yours. If they’re important to you, that’s enough. Surround yourself with people who understand that, and let 2025 be the year you go all in!
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Ready for more?
If you liked this, then you might be interested in my new book, Living Life Daily. Designed to motivate and challenge you every day, this book offers 365 thought-provoking prompts that will push you to reflect, take action, and embrace meaningful change. Whether you’re striving to set clearer goals, build resilient habits, or cultivate a winning mindset, each daily entry is packed with wisdom and practical advice to help you take small steps toward big results. Find it here!
You’ll also get massive value out of the Grit Meets Growth podcast that I share with Chris Cathers. It’s for people who want more out of life… at work, at home, in their relationships, and in their health and wellness. Find it here or on your favorite podcast platform! – John
