Local psychologist shares expert guide on how to make achievable goals for 2025

With just two more days left until the New Year, it is no secret that persons are already preparing to create many goals for the upcoming year, but sometimes these goals may not be feasible.
One local psychologist, Dr Moses John Roderique, is advising Guyanese on how to make realistic plans as the New Year approaches.
Fuelled by a desire to transform lives, Dr Roderique combines his expertise with genuine compassion in his multifaceted career.
During an interview with this publication, he revealed that several factors should be considered when setting goals for the New Year.
According to him, one of the main keys in making achievable goals is establishing clear goals which foster a sense of purpose and direction, motivating individuals to engage in activities that contribute to better mental health.

“To ensure that goals are realistic and achievable, individuals should consider the SMART criteria: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound,” he has said. “It’s important to reflect on one’s current circumstances and capabilities; set benchmarks that are challenging yet possible; and be flexible in adjusting goals as needed,” he continued.
“Seeking input from trusted friends or professionals can also help in assessing the feasibility of these goals,” he disclosed.
Emphasising the importance of setting goals related to mental health, he suggested that these goals be part of a structured approach.
“Setting mental health-related goals for the New Year is important, because it provides a structured approach to improving one’s emotional and psychological wellbeing. These goals can help individuals identify areas in their life that need attention, promote self-awareness, and enhance coping mechanisms,” he explained.
A common mistake, he disclosed, is that persons tend to make overly ambitious goals, which can cause those goals to ultimately fall through the cracks and end up unaccomplished.
“Common mistakes people make when setting goals include being overly ambitious, lacking specificity, and neglecting to set milestones for progress. To avoid these pitfalls, it can be helpful to break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps; explicitly define what success looks like, and regularly review and adjust goals based on progress and experience,” he stated.

Long-term success
Speaking on the importance of planning smaller, incremental goals, he declared, “Setting smaller, incremental goals contributes to long-term success by creating a series of achievable milestones that can build confidence and momentum.”
This approach, he said, allows individuals to celebrate small successes along the way, which can keep motivation high and make the journey toward larger goals feel less daunting. But while smaller goals are great to make, he revealed, a hidden problem that usually catches persons off guard is setbacks.
“If setbacks happen while working toward goals, individuals should respond with kindness toward themselves. Analyzing what led to the setback, adjusting expectations, and refocusing on the plan can be constructive. It’s important to remember that setbacks are a natural part of the process, and do not negate progress,” he detailed.
He has also said that self-compassion plays a crucial role in achieving goals, especially when setbacks occur. He revealed that it encourages individuals to treat themselves with kindness and understanding, rather than be self-critical. This perspective can help mitigate feelings of failure, and promote resilience, thereby enabling individuals to reflect on setbacks as learning opportunities rather than as insurmountable obstacles.

Monitor progress
Another tip Dr Roderique gave, which he said most people overlook, is setting trackers to monitor progress toward their goals.
“Tools for tracking progress toward goals may include journals, apps, or planners specifically designed for goal management. Techniques like habit-tracking, regular self-reflection sessions, and visual motivation boards can also be helpful. Incorporating progress checks into a routine can keep individuals engaged and focused on their path,” he explained.
However, he explained that, amidst all these strategies, there are times of uncertainty, when doubts creep into the minds of persons.
“To stay motivated throughout the year, individuals can establish a support system, seek accountability partners, or engage in regular reflections on their progress,” he explained. “Celebrating small achievements, adjusting goals as necessary, and revisiting the reasons for setting those goals can also help sustain motivation.”
Asked for advice on what someone should do if they feel like giving up on their resolutions, he mentioned that they should confide in their friends and family members.
“For someone feeling like giving up on their resolutions, I would advise reaching out for support; whether from friends, family, or professionals,” he said. “Re-evaluating the reasons behind the goals, and considering their significance can help reignite motivation. It may also be necessary to refine the goals to make them more attainable,” he added.
All in all, individuals can practise self-care and maintain their mental health while pursuing challenging goals by integrating regular relaxation, mindfulness, and enjoyable activities into their routines. Setting boundaries, ensuring sufficient rest, and making time for personal interests can help alleviate stress and create a sense of balance during the pursuit of these goals, he said.