Every year, I write myself a manifestation letter.

It’s my way of setting intentions, not only for my career or relationships, but also for a physical feat I want to conquer that year. Something that pushes me. Grounds me. Reminds me what I’m made of.

This year, that challenge was the Half Marathon.

But life had other plans first.

A few months ago, I had a lot of pain in my lower back and found out I had a bulging disc pressing on a nerve. Cue the frustration, doubt, and “maybe this just isn’t in the cards for me” inner dialogue. But I didn’t throw in the towel. I got to work.

Physical therapy. Mobility. Targeted strength training. Smart running programming (no burnout allowed). Prioritizing recovery like it was my job. And most importantly—leaning on the support of friends and family who reminded me that setbacks don’t cancel dreams.

On Saturday, I crossed that Brooklyn Half Marathon finish line.

So why am I sharing this? Because we all hit roadblocks in our fitness journeys. Whether your goal is weight loss, strength, endurance, or simply feeling more energized, life gets in the way. Injuries, temptation, work, family– they can all derail us if we let them.

But with the right mindset and a clear, structured plan, you’re unstoppable.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about direction.

Here’s the formula I swear by:
S.M.A.R.T. Goals – Specific. Measurable. Actionable. Relevant. Time-bound.
(Yes, I brought out the acronym. Because it works.)

To help you get started, check out this simple goal-setting worksheet. Use it to map out your next challenge—whether it’s a 5K, building muscle, eating healthy or just sticking to three workouts a week. Write it down. Manifest it. Then get to work.

As the saying goes:
“Plans are nothing. Planning is everything.” – Dwight D Eisenhower 

Let’s make this your year to cross your finish line—whatever that looks like.