When it comes to setting goals, the approach you take can vary based on the time you have.

Whether you’re in a rush, have a dedicated block of time, or want to go deep into planning, these three levels of goal-setting can help you stay productive and focused.

I’ll give you a quick 4-minute version, the thoughtful 40-minute version, and the comprehensive 4-hour version.

The 4-Minute Goal-Setting Method

This is for when you’re short on time but need clarity fast. Think of it as your "minimum effective dose" for goal setting.

1. Decide on ONE Priority

Ask yourself: What’s the one thing I need to accomplish to feel successful today/this week/this month?

Write it down.

2. Set a Micro-Action

Identify one small step you can take right now to move forward.

Example: If your goal is "Get healthier," your micro-action could be "Drink a glass of water."

Example: If your goal is to get better at “Lead Conversion,” your micro action could be “Create 3 different Ice Breakers.”

3. Set a Timeframe

Define a realistic deadline to measure your success.

Example: By the end of today, I will complete this task.

This level of goal setting is about speed and simplicity. Use it when you’re overwhelmed or need to refocus in the moment. Or if you’re being honest with yourself and have a bad habit of spending hours setting goals, but never sticking to your goals.

Setting 4-minute goals provides instant clarity by forcing you to focus on one priority, making it easy to overcome procrastination and take immediate action.

The quick wins that come from have 4 minute goals provide reduced overwhelm, build momentum, and boost confidence, keeping you focused and present.

The 40-Minute Goal-Setting Method

This version gives you time to go deeper.

1. Brain Dump Your Goals (10 minutes)

Write down everything you want to accomplish. Don’t censor yourself—just get it all out.

2. Categorize and Prioritize (10 minutes)

Group your goals into 2-3 categories (e.g., personal, professional, health). Then, identify the top 1-2 goals in each category.

3. Define Actionable Steps (15 minutes)

Break your top goals into actionable steps. For each goal, ask:

• What’s the first step?

• What obstacles might I face?

• How will I measure progress?

4. Schedule Your Goals (5 minutes)

Block time on your calendar to work on these steps. If it’s not scheduled, it’s not real.

This method balances depth and efficiency. It’s perfect for someone who wants structure without overthinking.

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The 4-Hour Goal-Setting Deep Dive

This is when you want to do some serious goal setting. I’m not sure you even have to get beyond 4 hours for any reason. If you do, you’re just procrastinating, not actually goal setting.

1. Reflect and Review (1 hour)

• Look back at your past goals. What worked? What didn’t?

• Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve in the next 1-5 years?

• Write down lessons learned and recurring themes.

2. Clarify Your Vision (1 hour)

• Define your long-term vision in key areas of your life: Career, Relationships, Health, Personal Growth, etc.

• Use prompts like:

  • What does success look like for me in 5 years?

  • How do I want to live life in my later years?

  • What do I want my grandchildren’s life to look like?

A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children - Proverbs 13:22

3. Set EPIC Goals (1 hour)

When it comes to setting goals, the typical advice is to use SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). These can provide structure, they often fall short of creating goals that are truly inspiring and actionable. That’s where EPIC goals come in.

EPIC stands for Excitement, Picture, Impact, and Commitment. Unlike SMART goals, EPIC goals focus on aligning your objectives with your passion and long-term vision, ensuring they’re both achievable and deeply motivating. Here’s how it works:

1. Excitement: Does this goal light you up? If it doesn’t excite you, it’s the wrong goal.

2. Picture: Can you clearly envision both the journey and the outcome? Goals need to feel tangible and achievable in your mind’s eye.

3. Impact: How does this goal align with your bigger life or business goals? Does it move the needle where it matters most?

4. Commitment: Are you 100% committed to this goal? Are you ready to say "yes" to what it takes and "no" to distractions?

4. Create a Goal Execution Plan (1 hour)

• Break down each goal into milestones.

• Assign deadlines for each milestone.

• Build a system for accountability (e.g., weekly check-ins, tracking apps, or an accountability partner).

This is where you align your goals with your values, create clarity, and map out exactly how you’ll achieve them.

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