Goal Setting: Becoming the Superhero Version of Yourself
When it comes to achieving your goals, traditional advice often centers around creating a plan, setting deadlines, and staying disciplined. While those steps are important, they don’t address the deeper issue: If you really want to achieve your goals, you need to make changes at the level of your identity. One of my favorite quotes by James Clear sums this up perfectly: “Change is best made at the level of identity. Start with who you wish to become, not just what you want to achieve.”
To truly transform your life, you need to create the "superhero" version of yourself. This isn’t about being perfect; it’s about becoming the best version of you—the person capable of achieving the goals you’ve set. Here’s how you can start:
Step 1: Envision Your Superhero Self
Take a moment to visualize your superhero version. This exercise is powerful because it shifts your focus from what you want to achieve to who you need to become. Ask yourself these questions:
What does this person look like? How do they carry themselves? How are they dressed? Are they confident?
What kind of character does this person possess? Are they disciplined, kind, resilient, or courageous?
What kind of energy does this person bring to the room? Are they calm and collected, or do they exude passion and enthusiasm?
What does this person do when things go right? How do they celebrate their wins?
What does this person do when things go wrong? How do they handle setbacks, especially when no one is watching?
The answers to these questions will help you paint a clear picture of the person you want to become. Odds are, this version of you has already achieved the goals you’re setting.
Step 2: Define Your Standards and Values
Once you’ve created a vivid image of your superhero self, the next step is to define the standards or values this person lives by. These are the non-negotiable principles that guide their actions every day. For me, my standards are:
Faith: Staying grounded, maintaining my relationship with God, and staying connected to my purpose.
Family: Prioritizing relationships and being present.
Health: Maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Grit: Showing resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges.
Service: Helping others and giving back to the community.
What are the core values that your superhero self embodies? Write them down and commit to living by them.
Step 3: Set Your Goals
Now that you know who you want to become and the standards you want to live by, it’s time to set your goals. The key here is to align your goals with your identity. For example:
If your superhero self is someone who prioritizes health, your goal might be to exercise five days a week and follow a balanced diet.
If your superhero self is someone who values service, your goal might be to volunteer monthly or mentor someone in your field.
Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, and aligned with the person you are becoming.
Step 4: Identify Daily Critical Tasks
Finally, figure out the 3-5 critical tasks your superhero self must do every day to achieve these goals. These tasks should be simple, actionable, and repeatable. When done consistently, they will lead you to success. For example:
Wake up, don't snooze: My productivity time is early, and I want to be done to spend more time with my family.
Nutrition: Eating clean gives me energy and confidence, but also helps me develop discipline and delayed gratification.
Keep my data current: Keeping accurate data is not something I enjoy. It forces me to stay organized, disciplined, and gives me the opportunity to be proactive instead of reactive.
Your daily habits shape your identity, and your identity shapes your destiny. By focusing on these critical tasks, you’ll build momentum and move closer to becoming your superhero self.
The Bottom Line
Goal setting is about more than creating a to-do list. It’s about transforming who you are at your core. By envisioning your superhero self, defining your values, setting aligned goals, and committing to daily critical tasks, you’ll not only achieve your goals but also become the person you’ve always wanted to be.
So, as you plan for the year ahead, don’t just ask, “What do I want to accomplish?” Instead, ask, “Who do I want to become?”
The answer to that question will change everything.
