40 Monthly Goals to Help you Be Your Better Self

Grow and bloom by setting amazing monthly goals!

I believe that it is tough to stay on track with your goals when you only set them once a year.

A lot can change in a year, and if you don’t set monthly goals you’re likely to fall behind on the ones that are important to you.

That’s why monthly goal-setting needs more attention and focus.

Setting monthly goals will help you stay on track, but it will also help you assess your progress and make necessary changes along the way.

Benefits of setting monthly goals

Setting monthly goals has a few key benefits:

• You can make adjustments as needed, rather than once a year. Setting monthly goals over yearly goals makes it easier to change your goals as your life and circumstances change.

• You can track your progress and see how far you’ve come. This is a great way to stay motivated and keep moving forward.

• It helps you stay focused. When you have a clear goal for the month, it’s easier to stay focused on what you need to do to achieve it. For example, if your goal is to save money, you’ll be more likely to cut back on spending and find ways to save.

• You can celebrate your accomplishments more frequently! Achieving a monthly goal feels great, and it’s a great way to stay motivated. And you have more reasons to celebrate!

Tips for setting monthly goals

I know, it can be tough to set monthly goals. It seems too often. But trust me, it’s worth it!

It is much better to focus on 12 smaller goals than 1 big goal.

Here are some tips for setting practical monthly goals:

Write down your goals for the month ahead of time.

The beginning of a new month is the perfect time to sit down and reflect on your goals for the next four weeks.

What do you hope to accomplish? What steps do you need to take to get there?

By setting monthly goals, you can make steady progress toward achieving your long-term objectives. Also, by writing your goals down, you can clarify your intentions and create a roadmap for success.

So give it a try – you may be surprised by how far you can go.

Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

When setting goals, it’s important to make sure they meet the criteria of being specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

This will help you create goals that are achievable and tailored to your needs.

For example, instead of setting the goal of “getting in shape,” you could set the goal of “running three times a week for 30 minutes.”

This goal is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound – making it much more likely that you will achieve it.

Create a plan of action for each goal, and make sure it is realistic.

Once you have set your goals, it’s time to create a plan of action.

What steps do you need to take to achieve each goal?

Make sure your plan is realistic, and remember to account for any potential obstacles.

If you find that your plan is overly ambitious, break it down into smaller steps that you can complete each week.

For instance, if your goal is to get in shape, your plan of action might look something like this:

• Week 1: Go for a 30-minute walk three times this week.
• Week 2: Add a 10-minute jog to your walks.
• Week 3: Increase your jog time to 20 minutes.
• Week 4: Run for 30 minutes three times this week.

Doing so will help you gradually increase your fitness level and make it more likely that you’ll stick to your plan.

Set reminders, and hold yourself accountable.

This could involve setting a recurring appointment in your calendar or designating a specific day of the week to review your progress.

You could also enlist the help of a friend or family member, and ask them to check in with you periodically.

Taking these steps will help you stay on track, and make it more likely that you’ll reach your goals.

Adjust your goals and plan as needed.

This is an important step because sometimes if something goes wrong we just give up.

But if you find that you’re not making the progress you’d like, take a step back and reassess your goals and plan.

It’s possible that you just need to make some adjustments to get back on track.

For instance, if your goal is, again, to get in shape, and you find that you’re struggling to stick to your plan, you could try readjusting your plan to another schedule or adding some variety to your workouts, like doing a fast yoga instead of a full workout. It is better than nothing!

The most important thing is to not get discouraged and to keep moving forward toward your goal.

Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small!

Last but not least, don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments.

This will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

So pat yourself on the back for a job well done, and look forward to another month of progress!

You can also pamper yourself with some Chinese takeaway or SPA at the end of each month.

How many monthly goals to set?

As a general rule, I would say 1-3 goals is a good number to start with.

Having one goal is fine. However, I would say that more than 5 is too much. This is because you will have a higher chance of not achieving all of them, and this could lead to discouragement.

Also, having too many goals can be overwhelming, and make it difficult to focus on any one thing.

It is better to spread them through more months, so you don’t get discouraged, and you can focus better.

What if you don’t achieve your monthly goals?

If you find that you didn’t achieve your goal, don’t beat yourself up about it.

Instead, take a step back and assess what went wrong.

Did you bite off more than you could chew? Did you encounter any unexpected obstacles?

Once you’ve identified the problem, you can make the necessary adjustments and try again next month. You have so many months left to finally achieve them.

And remember, even if you don’t achieve your goal, you’re still making progress.

Break your big goal into monthly goals

Take it one month at a time.

It is so motivating to finally see some progress each month, and it will help you stay on track to achieve your big goal.

You got this!

Monthly goals examples

In case you need some inspiration, I have thought of some monthly goals that are more universal and that could inspire you to set your own.

The goals are broken down for each month of the year, but you can start setting them at any time of the year. Also, a January goal can perfectly be done in August, and so with other goals.

January

• Make a full month without spending any money. I don’t mean you have to stop buying food or very necessary items, but try not to spend any money on unnecessary things, like clothes, make-up, going out, etc. This will help you save some money and be more mindful of your spending habits.
• Start a gratitude journal. Every day, write down at least 3 things you are grateful for. This will help you focus on the positive things in your life and be more thankful for what you have.
  Have a look at 101 things to be grateful for to get some inspiration.
• Try Veganuary. If you are thinking about going vegan, or even just eating less meat and dairy, why not try it for January? It might be a challenge at first, but it will be so worth it for your health, the animals, and the environment.
• Declutter your house. Getting rid of the things you don’t use or need can help to reduce stress and make your home more pleasant. Moreover, it can be a good way to save money by not having to buy storage containers or new furniture to accommodate all of your stuff.
  If you feel overwhelmed by the clutter in your house, check out this article for some tips on where to start.

February

• Make a budget and stick to it. This may seem like a daunting task, but it is essential for getting your finances in order and starting to save money. Seeing where your money goes each month will help you to make adjustments and cut back in areas where you may be spending too much. It takes time and effort to stick to a budget, but it is worth it if it means achieving your financial goals.
• Start a bullet journal. This can be a great way to get organized and declutter your mind. It can help you to keep track of your goals, schedule, and tasks, as well as being a creative outlet.
• Start an exercise routine. Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about getting in shape for swimsuit season. If you’re like most people, you probably made a New Year’s resolution to get healthy and fit. But let’s be honest: how many of us stick to our exercise goals?
  If you’re struggling to find the motivation to work out, why not set a goal for February? Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, or simply improve your fitness level, setting a specific goal will help you stay on track. And even if you can only spare five minutes a day for exercise, that’s still better than nothing. So don’t wait any longer: get up and get moving today!

March

• Do a 30-day minimalist challenge. This means that for the next 30 days, you will only buy things that you need and that you will declutter your home of any unnecessary items, and your mind! This can be a great way to save money and reduce stress. Also, it will help you to focus on what is important in life, which is relationships, experiences, and personal growth.
  Here is an example of a 30-day minimalist challenge.
• Go on a social media detox. This means taking a break from social media for some time, whether it’s for a day, a week, or even a month. It can be difficult to do, but it can be so worth it for your mental health. If you’re constantly checking your phone or comparing yourself to others online, it can be helpful to take a break and disconnect from the virtual world for a while.
• Visit a new place. Even if it’s just a different town or city, getting out of your comfort zone can be a great way to explore and learn new things. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not travel to a different country? Seeing new places and cultures can be a great way to broaden your horizons and expand your worldview.

April

• Start a garden. This is a great way to get outside and get some fresh air. It can also be very therapeutic and a great way to relax. If you don’t have a lot of space, you can start with a small herb garden. Or if you want to go all out, you can plant a vegetable garden. Either way, it’s a great way to get in touch with nature. In case you need more help with this, I find that this article is very helpful.
• Clean your house for 15 minutes each evening. When you wake up in the morning, it is so nice if your house is all organized and clean, the dishes are done and the trash is taken out. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but taking a few minutes each day to tidy up can make a big difference. Also, it can be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day.
• Organize your digital “life”. This means going through your computer and organizing your files, folders, and photos. It can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s so worth it. Once you’re done, you’ll feel so much better and your computer will thank you!

May

• Start a daily walking habit. It’s finally starting to warm up, which means it’s the perfect time to start a daily walking habit. Walking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. It’s also a great way to clear your head and relieve stress. So set yourself a goal to walk for at least 30 minutes each day. You can break it up into two sessions if that’s easier. Whatever works for you. Just get out there and walk!
• Take a break from caffeine. Caffeine can be a great pick-me-up, but it can also be a bit of a crutch. If you find that you’re relying on it too much, try taking a break for a month. See how you feel without it. You might be surprised at how much better you feel in the long run.
• Volunteer. Giving back to your community can be a great way to make a difference. And it doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort. You can volunteer for a few hours a week. There are plenty of opportunities available, so you’re sure to find something that interests you. And who knows? You might even make some new friends along the way.

June

• Visit a farmers market every weekend. This is a great way to get fresh, local produce. It’s also a great way to support your local farmers. And it’s a great way to get out of the house and explore your community. I love farmer markets because they have such a great atmosphere and I can buy produce in bulk and zero-waste. So I can’t recommend it enough. Just give it a try and see for yourself.
• Take a staycation. If you can’t afford to travel right now, that’s OK. You can still have a great time by taking a staycation. This is where you stay home but pretend you’re on vacation. It’s a great way to relax and have some fun without spending a lot of money. There are plenty of ways to make it work, such as visiting local tourist attractions, exploring your city, or having a picnic in your backyard.
• Go on a yoga retreat. A yoga retreat is an excellent way to rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice or simply take some time for yourself, a yoga retreat can offer the perfect combination of relaxation and self-care. And what better time to go than in June, when the weather is divine and the feels like it’s just begging you to slow down and enjoy life?
• Wake up early. This is a great way to start your day, especially now that the sunrise is so early. It gives you time to enjoy the quiet morning hours, get some exercise in, and get started on your day. It’s also a great way to avoid the heat later in the day. Also, there’s something very satisfying about getting a head start on your day.

Related: Setting Summer Goals to make the most out of the season

July

• Start a daily writing habit. One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to start a daily writing habit. It doesn’t matter what you write about, whether it’s your thoughts on the day’s events, a creative story, or just a list of things you need to do.
  Getting your thoughts down on paper (or screen) can help relieve stress and clear your head. And, over time, you may find that you have a better understanding of your thoughts and feelings.
• Start running. Running is a great way to get some exercise, clear your head, and explore your surroundings. In July, the weather is usually perfect for running, so it’s the perfect time to start. If you’ve never run before, start slow and build up your endurance. And once you get going, you may find that you enjoy it. Who knows, you may even end up running a marathon someday!
• Visit a new city. If you’re looking for an adventure, why not visit a new city? There are so many great places to explore, and you never know what you’ll find. If you don’t have the time or money to travel far, there are probably plenty of cities near you that you’ve never been to. So do some research and find a place that looks interesting. Then pack your bags and go!

August

• Take a trip to the beach. There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach. The sound of the waves, the smell of the salt air, and the feel of the sand between your toes. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge. If you live near the coast, make it a goal to visit the beach at least once a week in August. And if you don’t live near the coast, consider doing it at least for a weekend.
• Have a picnic every weekend. Picnics are a great way to enjoy the summer weather and spend time with friends or family. And there’s nothing quite like a picnic lunch with fresh, seasonal produce. So make it a goal to have a picnic every weekend in August. You can even make it a potluck and have everyone bring their favorite dish.
• Try a new recipe every week. One of the best things about summer is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. And what better way to enjoy them than by trying new recipes? Maybe you will discover a recipe that you are going to make on weekly basis. So challenge yourself to try a new recipe every week in August.
  You can find recipes online, in cookbooks, or even from friends and family. I usually find them either on Pinterest (look for good reviews) or from friends when I go visit them (they usually make interesting dishes that I enjoy trying cooking myself).

September

• Go to bed early and at the same time each night. Getting enough sleep is crucial for good health. So in September, make it a goal to go to bed early and at the same time each night. This will help to improve your sleep quality and quantity. Also, make sure to turn off all electronics at least 30 minutes before bedtime. This way, you will relax and fall asleep more easily.
• Eat a healthy breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It helps to jumpstart your metabolism and gives you energy for the day ahead. The easiest way to start the morning right is to eat a healthy breakfast. I enjoy making oatmeal with fruits and peanut butter on top, smoothies, and oatmeal banana pancakes. But there are endless possibilities, so find something that you enjoy and make it a part of your morning routine for this month.
• Walk or bike to work/school. This is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. And it’s also good for the environment. If you live close enough, challenge yourself to walk or bike to work/school at least once a week in September. The weather in September is usually so nice, the air is cleaner and cooler, and there are fewer people out and about. So take advantage of it while you can.
• Transform one of your bad habits into a good one. It can be anything, from quitting smoking to eating healthier or working out more. It can also be something easier, like making your bed every morning instead of just leaving it messed up.

October

• Quit sugar for 30 days. This can be a difficult challenge, but it’s doable. And it can have some great benefits for your health. Also, it can be a great way to reset your taste buds and break down your sugar addiction. If you’re up for the challenge, try giving up sugar for October. I know it is challenging but you can do it! Watch this video to see an example and what to expect.
• Drink at least 2 liters of water a day. Water is essential for good health. It helps to flush out toxins, improve your skin, and boost your energy levels. I find that I feel so much better when I drink at least 2 liters of water a day. I always carry with me a water bottle so that I can make sure I’m getting enough liquid. It’s also a good way to stay hydrated during the colder months.
• Take up a new hobby. Doing something you enjoy can help to reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your self-confidence. Also, it is a great way to learn new skills, develop, and become more creative! It can be anything, from painting and photography to cooking and gardening.

November

• Do something nice for someone every day. This is a great way to spread holiday cheer and make someone’s day. It can be as simple as smiling at a stranger, holding the door open for someone, or complimenting someone. Or you can go above and beyond and do something really nice, like bake cookies for your neighbor or buy a coffee for the person behind you in line. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it comes from the heart and that you are sincere.
• Take a cold shower every morning for the whole month. I know this one sounds crazy, but taking a cold shower every morning has so many benefits. It wakes you up, boosts your immune system, and can even help you to lose weight. So why not give it a try? It’s only for the month of November, so it’s not like you’re committing to a lifetime of cold showers. And who knows, you may find that you actually enjoy it!
• Try a dry month. This is a great way to reset your body and mind. Challenge yourself to go without alcohol for August. This will be a great way to improve your health, save money, and focus on other things. If you think you can’t do it, try it for just one week and see how you feel. I’m sure you’ll be surprised at how easy it is once you get started (right?). And who knows, you may even decide to extend it into December.
• Try meditating for 10 minutes every day. Meditation has so many benefits, like reducing stress, improving sleep and concentration, and making you feel happier. So do it!

December

• Be more intentional. This is a great way to end the year and start the new one. What does it mean to be more intentional? It means being aware of your thoughts, words, and actions and making sure that they align with your values and goals. It’s about being present in the moment and living with purpose. So for December, make a conscious effort to be more intentional in everything you do. I guarantee you’ll see a difference in your life.
  Here are some ways that can help you be more intentional.
• Read a whole book this month. This is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and relax. Choose a book that you’ve been wanting to read but haven’t had the time. Or pick up a new book that looks interesting. Make a cup of tea or coffee, curl up in a cozy blanket, and lose yourself in a good book. I guarantee you’ll feel better about it.
• Have a healthy month! This is a great way to start the new year. Challenge yourself to eat healthily, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. These are all important for good health. And if you can make it through December without falling off the wagon, you’ll be well on your way to a healthy new year.

Final thoughts

Setting monthly goals is a great way to improve your life. It’s a way to focus on what’s important and make positive changes.

That is why I challenge you to set monthly goals for yourself. Pick one or two goals that you want to focus on and make a plan to achieve them. I found that it is so motivating, and it really helps me to stay on track.

What about you? Have you ever set monthly goals for yourself? If not, do it!

Have a motivational month!

Cheers!

Related: Setting Relationship Goals