How to Set Goals That Actually Work : A Mid-Year Reset

Summer is here, which means we’re officially halfway through the year. It’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most.

This time of year always feels like a natural reset point. The buzz of January has long faded, the summer months invite us to slow down, and we’ve got just enough distance from our New Year intentions to look at them with fresh eyes. It’s the perfect time to check in with yourself and revisit how you’re feeling about your goals.

If you're wondering how to set goals that truly support the kind of life you want to build, this post is for you.

Why I Love a Mid-Year Check-In

For the past few years, I’ve built a simple ritual into my July routine: a mid-year check-in that helps me realign with my values and take stock of how the year is unfolding. It’s a gentle, reflective process, part celebration, part reset, and it always helps me feel more grounded and intentional.

One of the biggest benefits of a regular check-in is that it keeps your goals visible. So often we set big intentions in January and then don’t revisit them until the next New Year rolls around. By reflecting mid-year, we can course-correct, let go of anything that’s no longer serving us, and re-focus our energy in a way that feels supportive and aligned.

Plus, it’s a lovely way to celebrate how far you’ve come.

How to Set Goals That Feel Aligned

When it comes to how to set goals that truly stick, I believe in starting with reflection. Before jumping into new plans or piling more onto your to-do list, take the time to review what’s been working (and what hasn’t). This creates space to set meaningful, value-driven goals, ones that energise you rather than overwhelm you.

Here’s a simple check-in framework to guide your mid-year reset:

 1. What’s happened in the past six months?

Start by casting your mind back to the start of the year. What have the past six months looked like for you? You might like to scroll through your camera roll, journal entries, or calendar to jog your memory. Note the milestones, the wins, and even the quieter seasons.

2. What went well?

This is your opportunity to celebrate. What are you proud of? Which habits have been helpful? What routines have supported your wellbeing? Let this be a reminder of the progress you’ve made, big or small.

3. What felt challenging?

Be honest here. What didn’t quite go to plan? Which habits or routines felt unsustainable? Naming these challenges is the first step in shifting your approach and setting more realistic, nourishing goals for the months ahead.

4. What do you want to let go of?

Now’s the time to reflect on what you want to leave behind. That might be a pressure you’ve been placing on yourself, a belief that’s holding you back, or just a routine that’s no longer working. Letting go creates space for the good stuff to grow.

5. What are your goals and intentions for the second half of the year?

This is where the reset happens. What would you love the rest of 2025 to hold? How do you want to feel in your day-to-day life? What small changes could help you feel more fulfilled?

If you’re wondering how to set goals that actually feel doable, try setting a couple of intentions for different areas of your life; work, wellbeing, creativity, relationships. Keep them simple, and focus on what’s in your control.

Remember: your goals don’t have to be huge or impressive. They just have to matter to you.

Final Thoughts

So often, we think goal setting is something we only do in January but the truth is, the best goals are the ones we return to, refine, and reshape as we go. July is a beautiful time to check in, make space for reflection, and reset your intentions for the second half of the year.

I hope this post has helped you feel more confident in how to set goals that truly align with your values. I’d love to know what comes up for you if you give this check-in a try, so pop into my DMs or tag me if you share your reflections.

And remember: you don’t need a new year to begin again. You can start fresh today.

If you’d love a bit of support as you reset for the second half of the year, come and join us in The Choose Joy Club. In August, we’ll be doing a live quarterly reset together, and you’ll also get access to monthly workshops, weekly journal prompts, group coaching calls, and our cosy book club. It’s the perfect space to reflect, reset, and find a bit more joy in the everyday. We can’t wait to welcome you!