Why 2025 is the Year to Leave Your "Should’s" Behind and Embrace Big Gorgeous Goals

As the calendar flips to 2025, there’s a sense of renewal in the air. The promise of a new year inspires us to dream big and set our sights high. But far too often, those dreams are overshadowed by the weight of "should’s" — the self-imposed expectations, societal pressures, and inherited beliefs that dictate what we think we *should* do, rather than what we truly *want* to do.

This year let’s resolve to leave those "should’s" behind and approach our goals and dreams with clarity, intention, and the boldness they deserve.

The Tyranny of "Should"

"Should" is a tricky word. It masquerades as guidance but often serves as a barrier. When we think in terms of what we "should" do, we’re operating from a place of obligation rather than desire. We feel the need to meet external expectations or adhere to outdated narratives about success, productivity, or worth.

Consider these common “should’s”

• I should pursue a practical career instead of following my passion.

• I should say yes to every opportunity, even if it doesn’t excite me.

• I should keep doing what I’ve always done because change feels risky.

These "should’s" don’t lead to fulfillment; they lead to frustration, burnout, and a nagging sense that something is missing. The truth is the life you want can’t be built on a foundation of "should." It can only be built on what truly matters to you.

Replace “Should” with Intention

Leaving "should" behind doesn’t mean abandoning responsibility or ignoring commitments. It means shifting from a mindset of obligation to one of intention. Instead of asking, *What should I do?* ask yourself, *What do I want to create? What aligns with my values and vision?*

This is where Big Gorgeous Goals come into play. These are not your average goals. They’re bold, expansive, and deeply personal. They push you outside your comfort zone and invite you to dream bigger than ever before. Unlike "should’s," Big Gorgeous Goals come from a place of authenticity and excitement.

Identify Your "Should’s”

Spend some time reflecting on the areas of your life where "should" is running the show. Is it in your career? Relationships? Personal growth? Write down these "should’s" and examine where they’re coming from. Are they based on societal expectations, family influences, or fear of judgment?

Challenge the Narrative

For each "should," ask yourself: Is this truly important to me? What would happen if I let it go? Often, you’ll find that the consequences of abandoning a "should" are far less than you imagined.

Create Space for Magic

When you let go of "should," you create room for what’s truly meaningful. This is a concept I call Creating Space for Magic. By saying no to obligations that don’t serve you, you can say yes to opportunities that align with your Big Gorgeous Goals.

Set Goals That Matter

Use the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to translate your Big Gorgeous Goals into actionable steps. Remember, the best goals are the ones that excite and challenge you, not the ones that simply look good on paper.

Quarterly Check-Ins

As you move through the year, schedule regular check-ins to evaluate and recalibrate your goals. Are you staying true to your intentions, or have "should’s" started to creep back in? Adjust as needed to stay aligned with your vision.

Why Now Is the Time

The beginning of a new year is a powerful time to reassess your priorities. But 2025 is not just another year; it’s an opportunity to redefine how you approach life. By leaving "should" behind, you free yourself to pursue what genuinely matters to you. You’re no longer weighed down by external expectations and can step boldly into the life you’ve always dreamed of.  It's time to make the shift.

Imagine what your life could look like if you stopped living for "should" and started living for joy, passion, and purpose.

What would you create? Who would you become?

The answers to these questions are your roadmap for 2025 and beyond.

This year, let’s make a pact: No more "should’s." No more settling. Instead, let’s dream big, set bold goals, and approach the future with unwavering intention. Because the life you’re meant to live isn’t built on "should." It’s built on the bold, beautiful truth of who you are and what you want.  Isn't that what we all deserve?