Why Set Goals?

In this 5-minute video, we'll discuss 5 reasons why setting goals can help you achieve personal significance. (Full Transcript is below.)

Full Transcript of video

Welcome to Financial Freedom with SCBTV News! I'm Josh Duncan, and in this series, we're diving deep into the power of goal setting—a key driver in achieving personal significance and long-term success.

For the next five episodes, we’ll cover everything from setting meaningful goals to tracking progress and—everyone’s favorite—getting back on track when life throws us off course.

But today, let’s start with the basics: Why is goal setting valuable?

Why Goals Matter More Than You Think

I’ll be honest—there was a time when I dreaded goal setting. It felt like an annual ritual where I’d list my aspirations, only to be judged on them a year later. Sound familiar?

Fast forward 15 years, and my perspective has completely changed. I now see goal setting as a powerful tool that fuels both my personal and professional journey.

Here are the five key reasons why goal setting is a game-changer:

• Goals Define What You Want
  Have you ever written down what you want your life to look like? If not, it’s time to start! I call this my Life Vision—a roadmap for where I want to go. Remember, only you can define your version of success.
•   Goals Shape Your Behavior
  Goals give us a clear direction and keep us accountable. In 2017, I set a goal to earn my Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. It required hard work, time, and sacrifices, but by staying committed, I achieved it by 2018. That’s the power of goal-driven action.
• Goals Build Accountability
  Accountability starts with self-commitment, but sometimes, we need extra support. Think of hiring a fitness trainer or joining a mastermind group. Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s strength. Early in my career, I thought I had to achieve everything alone. Thankfully, a mentor showed me the power of collaboration and accountability.
• Goals Keep You Focused
  Achieving big goals isn’t about taking one giant leap—it’s about small, consistent steps. Whether it's advancing in your career, growing your business, or improving your health, breaking goals into bite-sized steps makes the journey easier and more manageable.
• Goals Motivate You to Keep Going
  Let’s face it—we live in an era of instant gratification. But real success takes time, patience, and persistence. When I started running in 2015, it was tough. I had to build endurance and push past discomfort. But three years later, I not only hit my goal—I exceeded it! Goals fuel motivation and drive us forward.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Goal setting is your blueprint for success—helping you define what you want, stay focused, and keep pushing forward. But here’s the key: You don’t have to do it alone. Seek support, stay accountable, and remember—your journey is yours to create.

What’s one goal you’re working on right now? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear about it!

Thank you for joining me for Financial Freedom. I'm Josh Duncan with F5 Financial Planning, helping you achieve financial freedom for personal significance. Please send topics you would like me to cover by contacting me here. See you next time.

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