Busy People Achieve Goals by Doing THIS

Do you ever feel like you’re just too busy to start something new? Whether it's a fitness routine, a side hustle, or learning a new skill, the thought of fitting it into your packed schedule can seem overwhelming. But how many times have you heard someone say, “If you really wanted it, you’d make time for it?” While that’s a common belief, it doesn’t always account for how hectic life can get. So, can busy people actually achieve their goals? The answer is yes—and in this post, we’ll learn how to do it without adding more stress to your already full plate.

Here’s how you can make that happen.

1. Get Specific About Your Goal

The first step is to clarify exactly what you want to achieve. Setting vague goals like, "I want to get in shape" or "I want to start a side business" is not going to get you very far. The more specific you are, the easier it will be to integrate it into your schedule. For example, instead of saying "I want to work out more," say, "I’m going to exercise for 30 minutes three times a week." Or instead of "I want to start a business," try, "I’m going to dedicate 45 minutes every day to working on my new business."

Being specific helps create structure for your goal, laying out a clear plan of action and a sense of accountability. Think of your goal like a roadmap—you need to know exactly where you're headed before you know how to get there.

2. Pick a Time to Work on Your Goal

Now that you know what your goal is, you need to decide when you're going to work on it. Are you a morning person? If so, maybe waking up 30 minutes earlier could be your best option. If afternoons are when you have the most free time, that could work well for you. Whatever fits best with your schedule.

The key is consistency. Block out that time in your schedule and treat it like an appointment with yourself. If you only try to squeeze your goal in whenever you have a free moment, it’s too easy to let it slip away.

3. Start Small and Stay Consistent

One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting something new is going too big too fast. You might be super motivated at first and think, “I’ll work out for an hour every day” or “I’ll wake up at 4 a.m. to work on my business.” That might work for a week or so, but then life happens, and you burn out.

Instead, you want to start small. Even if you can only dedicate 10 minutes a day, then do that. Because once you start—even if it's just 10 minutes—it becomes easier to keep going. Consistency is more important than intensity. It’s better to do something small every day than to go all out once a week and then stop altogether.

4. Reduce Friction and Remove Obstacles

The easier you make it to work on your goal, the more likely you are to stick with it. Let’s say your goal is to work out. Lay out your workout clothes the night before so you don’t waste time in the morning. If you're trying to write a book, open up your laptop to a blank document before you sit down. Small steps like these reduce friction, making it easier to jump right into your task without having to think about it.

5. Schedule Your Goal Like an Appointment

Once you’ve chosen a time to work on your goal, make it non-negotiable. Put it in your calendar like it’s an important meeting or doctor’s appointment. If you decide to work on your goal every evening at 7:30 p.m., treat that time like a sacred commitment. You can’t just say, “I’ll do it when I have time,” because if you wait for the perfect moment, it will never come.

6. Use Reminders and Stay Accountable

A great way to make sure you’re staying on track is to set reminders for yourself. Use your phone’s alarm or a calendar notification to remind you when it’s time to work on your goal. The more proactive you are, the less likely you are to follow through with it.

7. Connect Your Goal with an Existing Habit

Another effective strategy is to attach your new goal with something you already do regularly. For instance, if you want to learn a new language, practice your vocabulary every morning while having your coffee. Or, if journaling is your goal, do it right after brushing your teeth at night. By attaching your goal to an existing habit, you make it easier to remember and sustain.

8. Create a Productive Environment

Your environment plays a huge role in how productive you can be. If you're easily distracted at home, consider working at a coffee shop or library. If you're at home, create a dedicated space where you can focus and get things done. Make sure that your space is conducive to your goals. If social media is a temptation, put your phone out of reach.

Final Thoughts

Building new habits that support your goals doesn’t require drastic changes all at once. The key is consistency, even with small steps. Focus on creating a routine that works with your schedule, and don’t try to force something that isn’t sustainable. By starting small, planning ahead, and removing unnecessary obstacles, you’ll set yourself up for success. It’s about making gradual progress, and over time, working towards your goals will become a natural part of your daily life.

—Jon