Happy New Year! As we enter 2026, many people begin the year with resolutions. Kate opens this episode with a different view. She does not subscribe to New Year’s resolutions because they imply something about the self needs fixing. She does believe in goals. Goals offer direction, structure and growth without the self-judgement that resolutions often carry. This episode explores the psychology of setting meaningful goals for dancers, teachers, studio owners and parents. Kate reflects on how the way we set goals reveals our relationship with growth, control and self-worth. She explains why some goals energise us while others drain us, and how our underlying motivation shapes our experience of progress. Key themes include the difference between goals and expectations, the role of values in shaping direction, and the importance of pacing for nervous system regulation. Kate outlines a clear process for effective goal setting and describes how leaders can use these principles to strengthen communication and culture within their communities. The conversation also examines common traps such as perfectionism, rigid outcomes, all-or-nothing thinking and external validation. Kate offers insight into rebuilding a healthy relationship with goals through small commitments that restore self-trust. Listeners are invited to approach 2026 with steadiness and clarity. The focus is on who we become through the process of intention, action and reflection.

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Disclaimer: The Dance Real Podcast is a space for open, honest conversations rooted in real-life experiences within the dance world. What I share and what my guests share is based on personal perspective, not professional advice. If you’re seeking support for your mental health, legal matters, or business decisions, I encourage you to speak with a qualified professional. The views expressed by guests are their own and don’t always reflect mine. Any references to people, places, or situations are shared with respect and the intent to spark reflection, learning, and conversation not to harm or misrepresent. By engaging with this content, you acknowledge and agree that the host, guests, and Dance Real Podcast are not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided.