Falling Off the Horse: How to Stick to Your Goals When Things Go Wrong

The first week of 2025 is definitely not going the way I’d planned. I started the year with big goals, a clear plan, and a lot of excitement. But back-to-back, I’ve faced a few frustrating setbacks including water damage, and a major bank error during our mortgage renewal. The latest? Falling off a horse yesterday.

Now, does that mean I’m giving up on my goals and calling 2025 a failure already? Absolutely not.

Here’s why: I’ve been riding horses for 20 years, and the very first lesson I learned was this: when you fall, you get back on the saddle. You don’t give up just because of one rough ride.

This mindset doesn’t just apply to horseback riding—it’s the same principle I use in my everyday life. I have clear goals for the year, and I’m not going to let a bad week define the next 51. Perseverance is about how we respond when things don’t go as planned, and it’s a skill we can all learn to strengthen.

How to Persevere When the Year Doesn’t Start as Planned

A bad day—or a bad week—doesn’t mean the rest of the year is lost. Here are a few strategies to stay focused on your resolutions, even when the universe throws you off balance:

1. Remember: It’s Just One Week, Not the Whole Year One of the biggest mistakes we make is seeing setbacks as signs of failure. But a week—or even a month—doesn’t define an entire year. Reframe the setback: it’s a bump in the road, not a reason to stop driving toward your goals.

If your plan didn’t work out this week, adjust it and keep going. Focus on the bigger picture instead of getting caught up in the temporary obstacle.

2. Go Back to Your “Why” Why did you set this goal in the first place? Whether it’s a personal, professional, or family resolution, reconnecting with your “why” will reignite your motivation.

For me, I have a vision for 2025 that drives everything I’m doing. When I remind myself of that purpose, it’s easier to push through the hard days and get back on track.

3. Break It Down Big goals can feel overwhelming, especially when setbacks occur. Instead of focusing on the end result, shift your attention to smaller, achievable steps.

For example, if your resolution is to improve your health, focus on today’s walk or this week’s meals instead of the long-term weight-loss goal. Small, manageable wins build momentum and keep you moving forward.

4. Be Kind to Yourself We’re often our own worst critics. When something doesn’t go as planned, we’re quick to label ourselves as failures. Instead, practice self-compassion.

Treat yourself the way you’d encourage a friend: with patience, understanding, and belief in their ability to keep going. Falling isn’t failing—it’s part of the journey.

5. Build a Support System Share your goals with people you trust. Whether it’s a mentor, friend, or family member, having someone who can hold you accountable or offer encouragement when things get tough makes a huge difference.

Sometimes, just talking through challenges can help you reframe them and move forward with a clearer mindset.

A Final Thought

The first week of 2025 didn’t go as planned, but that doesn’t mean I’m giving up. Falling off the horse taught me a valuable lesson years ago: it’s not about the fall; it’s about what you do next.

So, if your resolutions feel off track already, remember: one rough week doesn’t determine your year. Refocus, take small steps, and keep moving forward. You’re not chasing perfection—you’re building progress.

Let’s make 2025 a year of persistence, growth, and resilience.