Before we rush headlong into setting goals for 2026, I think it’s worth pressing pause and acknowledging what worked in 2025. Reflecting on what worked well lets you start from a positive position acknowledging what you have already achieved – and it’s a far better foundation for meaningful change than guilt, pressure or unrealistic expectations.
A Few Things I’m Grateful for From 2025
As I reflect on the past year, a few highlights stand out:
- Having the time and space to focus on my directorship with COSBOA, and to support important initiatives such as Future Female Entrepreneurs and Cyber Wardens – programs that genuinely make a difference for small business owners. Plus this year I actually handed the cheque to the winner for the program at the final and could see the benefits for the five finalists.
- A truly lovely family holiday on Lord Howe Island – slowing down, reconnecting, and being reminded how relaxing it is to simply focus on being in nature, better still its an amazing spot.
- Taking up ballroom dancing again, and not just dabbling – actually relearning key dances and rediscovering how joyful (and humbling!) it is to be a beginner again.
- Upskilling with training through Fitgenes and Microba. Evidence based testing solutions for my clients that will help direct treatment. Personally the information from the Fitgenes testing has already helped me personally with good data on what will support me in terms of supplements and exercise.
These moments weren’t about ticking boxes. They were about connection, contribution, learning and enjoyment – and that’s exactly why they matter.
The Problem With Generic Goals
Every January we’re told to set goals like:
- “Lose weight”
- “Get fitter”
- “Work less”
- “Be healthier”
They sound sensible, but they’re also vague, joyless and often rooted in the idea that something about us needs fixing.
Generic goals tend to fail because:
- They don’t inspire emotion
- They feel like more work!
- They focus on outcomes, not experiences
And when life inevitably gets busy, they’re the first thing to be dropped.
What If We Focused on Fun Resolutions Instead?
Fun goals don’t mean frivolous or unimportant. They mean goals that:
- Spark curiosity
- Feel aligned with who you are now
- Add energy rather than drain it
Fun goals are often process-based rather than outcome-based. They pull you forward instead of pushing you from behind.
For example:
- Instead of “exercise more” → Find an activity you genuinely enjoy
- Instead of “eat better” → Learn to cook three new Mediterranean-style meals you love
- Instead of “stress less” → Create a weekly ritual that helps you unwind or ditch activities that don’t serve you anymore.
When something feels enjoyable, consistency becomes natural. Check out my Better Brain Health recipes free download for some inspiration for recipes that are quick and easy and you will love preparing and eating.
Why This Matters for Healthy Ageing
As we get older, sustainable health isn’t built on extremes – it’s built on habits we’re happy to keep.
Fun, meaningful goals:
- Support long-term motivation
- Reduce stress and all-or-nothing thinking
- Encourage learning, social connection and joy (all key longevity factors)
Ballroom dancing is a perfect example. It supports balance, coordination, brain health, cardiovascular fitness and social connection – but it feels like fun, not exercise. Well most days its fun sometimes when you get stuck and can’t seem to remember what you learned the previous week its a little frustrating.
If you’re not sure where to start, try this:
Ask yourself:
- What gave me energy in 2025?
- What did I wish I had more time for?
- What would make me laugh if I did it regularly?
Keep them light. Keep them flexible. And most importantly, keep them yours.
Let 2026 Feel Good
You don’t need a complete reinvention this year. You don’t need to hustle harder or aim for perfection.
What if 2026 was about:
- Feeling better, not doing more
- Choosing enjoyment over obligation
- Building habits that support a long, vibrant, outrageously good life
That sounds like a resolution worth keeping.
If 2026 is the year you want to really change your health then please see if my Ageing Outrageously program is right fit for you.
