The New Year Non-Resolution: Choosing Direction Over the Short-Term Spark

I used to love the energy of a New Year’s resolution. There is something undeniably inspiring about a clean slate and the sudden, radical shift of a "fresh start" on January 1st.

But over time, I noticed a pattern: that initial burst of inspiration didn’t last. I would get incredibly motivated, dive into a "New Year sprint," and then quickly burn out when the reality of daily life set in. I once joined a New Year’s Day 5K, fueled by the idea that a morning run would instantly establish a new version of myself, which would run or do other exercise daily. That transformation lasted about as long as the race - roughly 30 minutes of effort followed by a quick return to reality.

I haven’t stopped planning - I’ve just stopped tying my progress to an arbitrary calendar date. Now, I focus on a continuous process of revisiting my direction and course-correcting as I go.

Dream Big, Act Small

There is a phrase used by many motivational writers and speakers in multiple variations: "Dream big, act small." A big vision is vital for motivation, but it is the small, daily actions - the ones that often feel insignificant - that actually build long-term results.

The "New Year sprint" is often too ambitious to be sustainable. Instead of grandiose promises, I look for the smallest possible step that moves me toward a longer horizon.

Choosing Action Over Perfection

We often get paralyzed by trying to find the "perfect" plan or waiting for the "perfect" time to start. Consistent action is far superior to a perfect vision that never sees the light of practical implementation.

Daily, these micro-steps can feel like nothing is happening. You might not see a visible difference after a week of new habits or a month of intentional choices. When there are no immediate, flashing results, it is easy to get discouraged.

The Power of the Look Back

This is exactly why reflection is a non-negotiable part of the process. Because micro-steps are barely noticeable day-to-day, you have to look back over months or years to own your actual progress truly. When I take the time to reflect, I always find growth that I missed in the moment.

This year is no exception. I’m not making big new promises or setting "sprint" goals. I am simply checking in:

• Is the current course still the right one?

• Are my daily actions aligned with that direction?

• What small step can I take today to stay the course?

Progress isn't found in a once-a-year burst of energy; it’s built through the foundation of long-term sustained action - one baby step at a time.

My non-resolution for 2026

My resolution for this year is not have any big resolutions besides the resolution to stay on course:

• Financial priorities: live below means, fully fund the increased goal for the emergency fund, and always maximize pre-tax 401(k) and Roth IRA contributions. Nothing new, nothing unusual. Just keep going.

• Relationship priorities: family is the biggest focus, then having regular time with friends, including meetings with friends and family while travelling all over the world. Again, nothing new!

• Spiritual priorities: continue practicing meditation and growing spiritually. No big claims or goals, just moving in the direction that feels right to me.

• Development & Career priorities: keep developing the Intentional Money project and growing myself as a financial guide, coach, counsellor, and educator. Stay consistent in my blog and Instagram accounts. Move towards AFC certification goals (exam, experience hours). I am not setting an exam date yet, or deadlines for when I have to complete all the experience hours. I move with the speed that feels good to me and doesn’t jeopardize my career at Google, which remains a main career focus.

• Health & Wellness: continue prioritize sleep, regular movement and eating (I am not even saying eating well… Just eating regularly is already a win for me!).

There are a lot of “little things” that I would love to do within each of those groups of priorities (like going to Vipassana, taking Tennis Lessons, or doing Ean xternship to learn more about the Financial Planning), but if they don’t happen, or other things happen - that’s all good, as long as the direction is consistent.

“Dream Big, Act Small” and variations

• "When making plans, think big. When making progress, think small." — James Clear

  • This is a notable quote often shared in his "3-2-1" newsletter and public speaking, reinforcing the "atomic" habit principles found in his book Atomic Habits. 

• "Dream Big, Think Small" — Jeff Manion

  • This is the main title of his book, subtitled Living an Extraordinary Life One Day at a Time. The quote reflects his philosophy that "truly great lives are built on the foundation of a holy redundancy - a persistence and determination to move faithfully in the right direction".

• "Dream Big. Start Small. Act Now." — Robin Sharma

  • This is a famous mantra and spoken quote frequently used by Sharma in his keynote speeches and leadership training. While it captures the essence of books like The 5 AM Club or The Everyday Hero Manifesto, it is primarily cited as his signature motivational "recipe" for achievers.

•  "Dream big. Start small. But most of all, start" - Simon Sinek

  • Widely attributed to Simon Sinek, the mantra serves as a shorthand for the philosophy in his book Start with Why. While the phrase gained fame through his social media, it distills the core message of his legendary TED Talk: a visionary "Why" requires immediate, actionable steps to become reality.

Transparency Note: I’m the human behind the keyboard - the thoughts and words here are 100% mine. I use AI as a brainstorming partner and to help smooth out the edges (grammar and flow), assist with research, and create the visuals you see throughout my posts.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. I am an AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor) Candidate, not a licensed financial advisor, tax professional, or attorney. The content herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding your individual financial situation. The opinions expressed are my own and do not represent the views of my employer.