Stop! Ask yourself these 5 questions before you set a single 2026 goal

As the year comes to a close, it’s natural to start daydreaming about what’s next—what you want to achieve, change, or finally let go of in 2026.

But before you dive headfirst into resolutions or start jotting down goals, hit pause for a moment. Ask yourself: Why do these goals really matter? And more importantly, do they actually line up with the life you want to live?

How to set goals that truly inspire

According to Annemie Burger, HR Director at top brand and communication agency Penquin, the key to setting goals that actually matter isn’t about pressure—it’s about taking the time to reflect.

“We live in a culture that’s always pushing us to do more, earn more, achieve more. However, lasting change doesn’t come from ticking off boxes, it comes from being intentional about who we are and what we value. If you take the time to ask the right questions, you will set goals that actually inspire you instead of overwhelm you,” said Burger.

5 questions to reflect on before setting your 2026 goals

Here are 5 questions Annemie Burger says you should ask yourself before setting any personal or professional goals for 2026:

1. What did this year teach me?

“Before looking ahead, take a moment to look back. Think about what you have overcome, what you have learned about yourself, and what you would like to leave behind. Reflection gives meaning to progress. Even if you didn’t hit every goal, you have grown in ways that matter. Recognise that. It’s the foundation for everything that comes next,” said Burger.

2. Where did my energy go, and did it serve me?

At the end of a busy year, many people feel exhausted but unsure why. Burger suggests doing an “energy audit”, looking at what filled you up and what drained you.

“Ask yourself where your time and energy really went. Were you investing in things that made you feel alive and purposeful or were you just getting through the days? Your energy is your most valuable resource, protect it,” said Burger.

3. What does success look like for me?

It’s easy to compare yourself to others or chase goals that look good on paper. However, Burger says true success is personal.

“Maybe success for you this year means slowing down, spending more time with family, or prioritising your health. It doesn’t have to be about promotions or big milestones. The only definition that matters is yours,” said Burger.

4. Who do I want to grow with?

The people we surround ourselves with influence how we think, feel, and act.

“Think about who lifted you up this year. Who challenged you in a good way? Who made you feel supported and seen? As you move into a new year, choose your circle intentionally, it’s one of the most powerful things you can do for your wellbeing and success,” said Burger.

5. What will I do differently this time?

Real growth happens when you change the approach, not just the goal.

“Maybe you have been setting the same goal for years, to save more, to exercise, to rest more, but it never sticks. Instead of giving up, ask yourself what small change you can make to get a different result. Sometimes that shift in mindset is all it takes,” said Burger.

For Burger, setting goals isn’t about pressure, it’s about possibility.

“You don’t need to have your whole life figured out by January. You just need to start with awareness. When your goals reflect your values, it becomes easier to stay consistent, because you are working towards something that feels authentic to you,” said Burger.

Be intentional in 2026

As we prepare to welcome a new year, Burger encourages South Africans to trade perfection for progress, and to set goals that feel grounded, kind, and personal.

“The most powerful thing you can do for yourself in 2026 is to be intentional. When you set goals that reflect who you are, not who you think you should be, you’ll create a year that feels both meaningful and fulfilling,” said Burger.

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