Today’s episode is the final installment of a series on setting (and achieving!) your goals. This week, we’re talking about making an action plan - one that you’ll actually follow through on.

In this episode, I’m walking you through how to tackle a goal that is challenging for a lot of moms - simplifying weeknight dinners.

You’ll Learn:

1. A simple 3-step process to creating a goal plan you can actually stick to
2. Real-life examples of simple first steps
3. How to make time for your goal and keep yourself accountable
4. What to do when you get stuck

If you missed either of the previous episodes, go back and listen to the first two episodes about defining your goal and solving for obstacles. And be sure to grab the free workbook here.

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I once read that former Secretary of State, Madeline Albright, decided to go back to college when she had three small children. She did all of her schoolwork while in the car waiting for them at pickup. Proof that big goals are achieved through manageable, consistent actions.

Throughout this series, I’ve used the example of my own 2026 goal to publish a book to illustrate this goal process. Today, I’m tackling a goal that is a little more relatable for most moms - simplifying weeknight dinners.

Step 1: Do a brain dump

Start by rewriting your goal, so you’ll keep it top of mind. Then, write down anything you can think of that will help you make progress toward your goal. What are all the things you could do in order to make your goal happen?

Brain dumps are the time to get EVERYTHING out on paper. There are no bad ideas in this stage. No editing, just brainstorming.

Think about what will keep you accountable, too. When I started my podcast, one of my action items was to share my goal with others. Don’t keep your goal a secret. When other people know what you’re working toward, they can check in and cheer you on.

Step 2: Choose your first small step

Emphasis on SMALL. The goal here is to start taking action without getting overwhelmed. Taking the first step will help you build momentum to keep going.

When in doubt, start small - small, simple actions, small chunks of time. These are much easier to stick to than big, lofty goals that leave you with a feeling of dread.

Step 3: Chunk your goal into phases

There are a few phases that are common to most goals. They’ll look different depending on what you’re working toward, but the overall concept is the same.

In the beginning of a goal, you probably won’t be sure what to do or which approaches will work best for you. There’s a lot to figure out, and your actions will take longer at the beginning. As you continue taking action, you’ll build routines and momentum, until your goal starts to feel easy.

1. Getting started - This is the foundation. Start by looking at what’s already working. What have you already achieved in this area that you can build on?
2. Building momentum