Why You Should Have Fun with Goals
So you set your goals for the new year and you were so excited to get started making progress. It was super easy to feel motivated at the beginning of January. Then about a couple of weeks into it, day to day life gets back to normal. After the magic of the new year, those goals start to lose their shine. The fix to losing motivation on your goals? Have fun with goals along the way to encourage you to keep going!
It Doesn’t Have to be Expensive
Having fun with goals can help you stay encouraged to keep going. Having fun doesn’t have to mean rewarding yourself with material things whenever you reach a milestone. Additionally, buying things to celebrate your progress may even set you back in other goal areas. Financial goals, or goals to declutter your home or closet are difficult when you keep buying things.

Many of my own goals for 2024 revolve around feeling contentment with my home and life. Shopping for new stuff every time I reach a goal or need encouragement to keep going just doesn’t feel right. And even small purchases add up over time to diminish the progress I’m making on financial goals. I’m also making my way back towards a more intentional and minimal lifestyle.
Fun Along the Way vs. Rewards for Completion
It’s also a good idea to recognize the difference between having fun with the process and celebrating the milestone. Both are important when setting goals but may have different impacts. I personally need more encouragement to keep going while I’m in the trenches.
How to Have Fun with Goals
I’ve brainstormed a few ways that I can have fun with goals. These are not purchases but still add a bit of joy to whatever it is I’m working on.
Health Goals
Save a special audiobook from the library that you’ve been looking forward to reading. Listen when you go for a walk, run, or workout. It’ll help pass the time and as the book heats up you’ll be eager to start your next workout. I use the free Libby app and my library card. It’s also fun to update progress on GoodReads to share with your friends.
You can also have fun by switching up the location. Taking a walk around your neighborhood is super convenient. But think about all the wonderful parks, gardens, and nature reserves that may be nearby. Make a list of some to try and get excited about going to check them out for your next hike. The kids will love it too! (Bonus family goal fun!)
Financial Goals
Many people choose to make some sacrifices in order to save some money in 2024 (goodbye weekly coffee shop run!). It’s hard to imagine a way to keep saving money fun, I know. I decided that I’d bring my own coffee or other fun drink from home when heading out to do errands. A squirt of whipped cream and some sprinkles makes it fun, and trying out different flavors keeps it interesting. I tend to go in phases and right now I’m into chai lattes. Yum!
Health + Financial Goals
This one is a twofer. Eating at home more supports both your health and financial goals. Have fun with goals along the way by changing up the dinner routine. On a night when you’d normally go to a restaurant or order takeout, have family members choose a theme. Try to find recipes around that. Keep an open mind and you might find some new favorites!
Or combine that idea with movie night and make dishes that go with that movie. Or look up copycat recipes for everyone’s favorite restaurant foods. Set aside a night each month or week where you try one.
General Goal Areas
Identify some goals that you can add some friendly competition to (daily steps, etc). The winner gets to choose the next movie or tv show to stream. Other ideas for the winner: choose the restaurant for the next meal out or the next game for game night.
It is also fun to share my progress on social media. You can take photos of each step in your process. When you’re done, you’ll have a fun slideshow to share or look back on.

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