Setting Goals and Building Confidence in 2026
Growing Into the New Year: A new year is a fresh start
It's a time to think about what you want, what makes you happy, and what steps can help you grow. At Opportunities, Inc., we believe every person deserves the chance to set goals, learn new skills, and feel confident in their own journey. No goal is too big or too small. What matters most is taking steps that feel right for you.
Here are some simple, supportive ways to set goals and build personal growth in 2026.
1. Think About What You Want to Learn or Try
A goal can start with one question:
“What would I like to do this year?”
Maybe you want to:
- Learn how to use public transportation
- Try a new hobby
- Make new friends
- Volunteer somewhere you care about
- Practice cooking, cleaning, or money skills
- Explore jobs or build work experience
There are no wrong answers. This is your year and your path.
Tip: Start by choosing one or two goals that feel exciting and manageable.
2. Break Big Goals into Small Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming, but breaking them into tiny steps makes them easier.For example:
Goal: I want to work in a store someday.
Small steps could be:
✔ Practice greeting people
✔ Learn how to sort or organize items
✔ Try a volunteer shift to build confidence
Every step counts, and every step is worth celebrating.
3. Ask for the Support You Need
Everyone needs help sometimes. Reaching out for support is a strong, smart choice.
You can talk to:
- Staff
- Family
- Friends
- Your Employment Specialist
- Your Community Support Professional
Tell them what you want to work on. Together, you can make a plan that helps you succeed.
4. Celebrate Your Progress — Not Just the Finish Line
Personal development is about growing, not being perfect.
Celebrate when you:
- Try something new
- Practice a new skill
- Work through a challenge
- Make a healthy choice
- Take a step toward independence
These moments show courage, strength, and determination.
5. Stay Positive and Believe in Yourself
Some days will feel easy. Others will feel tough. Both are okay.
What matters most is knowing:
- You are capable
- You are learning
- You are growing
- You deserve opportunities
- You belong in your community
- Your goals are possible. Take one step at a time.
6. Use Your Voice in Your Journey
You have the right to make choices about your life.
Speak up about what you want. Share your ideas. Ask questions. Tell people how they can best support you.
You are the leader of your own path.
7. Look Back and See How Far You’ve Come
Think about everything you achieved last year — big and small.
Every skill you practiced, every outing you enjoyed, every new connection you made…
These moments show your strength and potential.
Let them inspire you for the year ahead.
Moving Forward Together
At Opportunities, Inc., we are here to support you in building a life filled with purpose, confidence, and connection.
Whether your goals are about independence, friendship, learning, or work, we’ll walk beside you every step of the way. Here’s to a year of growth, joy, and new possibilities. You’ve got this and we’re here with you.