The Key to Workplace Wellness: Chasing Dreams Without Running on Empty

As working moms, we’re basically the CEOs of our own tiny empires. We plan, manage, and troubleshoot like pros. So, naturally, we love setting goals—because what’s a CEO without a strategy? But here’s the thing: Are your goals actually yours?

Too often, we set external goals based on what we think we should do, or what we see others achieving. We end up on the hamster wheel of endless to-do lists, feeling exhausted, and wondering why reaching that “milestone” doesn’t feel as fulfilling as we thought.

Let’s talk about setting goals that don’t just look good on paper but feel good in your soul.

The Balance: External vs. Internal Goals for Optimal Workplace Wellness

External goals are the ones everyone sees: that promotion, the 5K race, or finally mastering the art of packing lunches that aren’t 50% snacks. They’re great for giving us direction and showing us what’s possible. But if they’re not backed by an internal “why,” they lose meaning.

Internal goals are deeply personal. They’re about why you want that promotion (to challenge yourself, not to prove something), or why you want to run that 5K (to feel stronger, not just to post about it).

Why External Goals Alone Don't Cut It

Imagine chasing a goal that wasn’t really yours. Maybe it looked shiny on someone else’s highlight reel, or maybe it’s what society tells you a “good mom” or “successful woman” should do.

You finally reach it, and... nothing. No fireworks. Just exhaustion and an unsettling feeling of What now?

Find Your “Why” (And Make Sure It’s Yours)

Before setting your next goal, ask yourself:

• Why do I want this? Is it for me, or to impress someone else?
• What will it feel like when I achieve it? If the answer is “relief” instead of “joy,” reconsider.
• Does it align with my values? If your goal conflicts with what really matters to you, you’ll struggle to stay motivated.

Working Mom Translation:

Think of it like signing up for a marathon. Is it because you love running, or because Karen from PTA said she’s doing one? Goals should energize you, not drain you before you even start.

Tips for Setting Balanced Goals:

1. Mix Internal with External:Pair that external goal (like a job promotion) with an internal one (like gaining confidence in your leadership skills).
2. Ditch the Comparison Game:Just because your coworker’s goal is to work 60-hour weeks doesn’t mean yours has to be. (Unless that’s your idea of fun—then carry on! ??)
3. Make Room for Small Wins:Sometimes, the best goals are simple: “Drink my coffee while it’s hot” is a valid internal goal, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

The Bottom Line: Goals Should Feel Good

Set goals that excite you. Ones that make you want to get out of bed (even if it’s at 5 a.m. because the toddler had a nightmare). When your goals are balanced between external achievement and internal fulfillment, success feels like your success—not just another item checked off the list.

Now go set some goals, mama. And make sure they’re yours. ??

Ready to connect with your future self and set goals that truly inspire you? ??

Download the Workplace Wellness for Women app and listen to our FREE Future You UNLEASHED meditation. Take a moment to recharge, reflect, and unlock the vision of the empowered woman you're becoming.

Your future self is waiting—tap in and unleash her! ??