Goals. Those sparkly little promises we make to ourselves, often with a stern face and a cup of coffee in hand, and we’re convinced this time will be different. But how often do we stick to them? If you’re fed up with your New Year’s resolutions disappearing into February’s to-do list, let’s get science-y about goal setting and achieving—with London’s top life coach, Michael Serwa.
Why SMART Goals Actually Work (Yes, Really)
If you’ve ever typed “how to achieve my goals” into Google (who hasn’t?), you’ve probably come across the SMART framework. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals—it’s like the Swiss Army knife of personal development. Why does it work? It’s backed by science.
Dr. Edwin Locke’s Goal Setting Theory says clear and challenging goals lead to higher performance. Being vague, like “I want to lose weight”, won’t cut it. Instead, try something like, “I will lose 10 pounds by June by walking 10,000 steps daily and eating 1,800 calories a day.” Boom! That’s a SMART goal.
Michael Serwa, London’s top life coach and someone I spoke to, says: “A goal without clarity is like a boat without a rudder. You’ll just drift. Make it specific and give it a deadline.” Words to live by.
SMART goals also have the added bonus of being easier to track and measure, which creates progress. Whether you’re building a business, getting healthier or learning a new skill, tracking small wins fuels your Motivation and keeps the momentum going. After all, what feels better than ticking a box on your to-do list?
The Psychology of Motivation and Discipline
Motivation gets you started, but discipline keeps you going. Studies show Motivation is fleeting (hello, gym memberships in January), while habits and systems keep you grounded. When dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical, is tied to small wins, you’re more likely to stick to your big goals.
Serwa says: “Motivation is great for kick-starting things, but it’s consistency that wins the race. Build routines that make achieving your goals inevitable.” He says the secret sauce is accountability—and that’s where working with a life coach can be a magic bullet.
Psychological research also shows self-discipline is key. Researchers at Stanford University found self-control is a better predictor of success than IQ. In other words, you don’t need to be a genius to achieve your goals—you just need a plan and the willpower to follow through.
But let’s not forget: we’re human. The support and encouragement of someone who gets you, like Michael Serwa, can make all the difference. In fact, a study from the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) found people who commit their goals to someone else and have regular check-ins are 65% more likely to achieve them.
Why a Life Coach Can Be Your Secret Weapon
Think of a life coach as your personal GPS, except they won’t judge you for taking the scenic route. A good coach will keep you on track, give you feedback and give you that little push when procrastination creeps in.
During our chat, Michael Serwa, London’s highest-paid life coach, said: “People hire coaches not because they’re not capable, but because they want to achieve their goals faster and smarter. It’s about upgrading.” Working with a professional coach means you’re not just setting goals but smashing them.
A life coach also gives you a safe space to reflect and brainstorm. How often do we sabotage our goals with self-doubt or indecision? A coach can help you cut through the noise and get to what really matters. And they’ll hold you accountable so your plans don’t end up in a dusty old notebook.
Action Steps: From Goal Setting to Goal Crushing
- Write It Down: Goals written down are 42% more likely to be achieved. So grab a notebook or your phone and start writing.
- Break It Into Bite-Sized Pieces: Big goals feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, actionable steps. Want to run a marathon? Start with 1-mile runs.
- Find an Accountability Partner: A friend, mentor or, better still, a professional life coach can help you stay on track. If they happen to be as good as Michael Serwa, even better.
- Celebrate Wins (Big and Small): Treat yourself for milestones along the way. Keeps the Motivation going.
- Review and Adjust Regularly: Life happens. Goals may need to change as circumstances do. Don’t be afraid to pivot if it keeps you on track with your priorities.
By following these steps, you’ll make progress and build confidence. Remember, every little win adds up to big.
Science Bits: Why Your Brain Loves Goals
Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman says setting goals activates the brain’s dopamine system. Achieving a goal—any goal—gives you a hit of satisfaction. This positive feedback makes you more likely to go after more goals.
Interestingly, visualising your success is also involved. But here’s the catch: don’t just imagine yourself enjoying the rewards. Visualise the steps you’ll take to get there. This dual approach helps the brain link effort to outcome.
Research shows that breaking tasks into smaller steps activates the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and self-control. When you tackle small, actionable steps, you build progress, and the overall goal feels less big.
Conclusion
As we finished our conversation, Serwa said, “A meaningful goal isn’t about impressing others; it’s about what excites you. Stop following trends and start following what matters.”
Whether it’s fitness, career growth or personal development, having a professional life coach in your corner can make all the difference.
One of the most important things I learned from Serwa is that professional guidance is not a sign of weakness but a smart investment in yourself. He says, “The biggest mistake people make is thinking they can’t benefit from outside help. Even the best athletes in the world have coaches.”
Ready for 2025? It’s not just about setting goals—it’s about crushing them with strategy, science and, yes, a bit of Serwa magic. So, if you’re serious about upgrading, why not start with a professional life coach? Good luck!
