Looking back now, I realize that simple act of putting my goals on paper was the start of something transformative. Most of what I wrote down that day eventually became a reality. It wasn’t magic; it was a combination of consistent effort, staying focused, and having a clear sense of direction.
Why Writing Down Goals Still Matters
Now, 12 years later, I’ve made goal-setting a regular habit. Life doesn’t get any less chaotic as you grow older—in fact, it gets harder to prioritize without a clear vision. Without goals, it’s easy to drift and lose sight of what truly matters.
For me, clarity has become even more important as I’ve started valuing time over money. I think a lot about the moments I get to spend with my family—whether it’s my wife or my parents—and how much those moments mean to me. My long-term goal is to build a business that gives me the freedom to take weeks off to enjoy time with the people who matter most.
How I Stay on Track
Like many people, I face challenges when it comes to focus. My ADHD makes it especially easy to get distracted or overwhelmed. What works for me is breaking my goals into smaller pieces—starting with annual targets, then narrowing them down into monthly and even daily action steps.
Having these steps written down and visible helps me stay accountable. I’ve learned that writing things down isn’t just about organizing thoughts—it’s about creating a clear, actionable path. Even on days when focus feels impossible, seeing those goals reminds me to realign with my priorities.
Turning Vision Into Numbers
This year, I updated my business goals with a clear focus on measurable results. I started by outlining where I want to be in three years and then worked backward to identify what I need to accomplish in the next year to stay on track.
For example, in my dental practice, I’ve been fortunate to experience consistent 25% annual growth over the last three years. This year, I’m on track to hit $2 million in production—a milestone that reflects the hard work my team and I have put in.
However, I also recognize the limitations of my current setup. With the space I have now, aiming for another 25% growth isn’t realistic. For the next year, I’m targeting a 15% increase, knowing that in three years, I’ll be expanding into a new office that’s three times the size of my current one. That expansion will open the door to new opportunities for growth, both in terms of capacity and impact.
Reflecting on the Process
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that writing down your goals is more than just a productivity exercise. It’s about clarity, accountability, and building a roadmap for where you want to go. For me, that Starbucks napkin wasn’t just a casual scribble—it was the start of a mindset that continues to shape my life and career today.
If you haven’t written down your goals yet, I encourage you to give it a try. Whether it’s personal or professional, having a clear vision can make all the difference in turning dreams into achievable realities.
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