Every end of the year invites us to set new goals or create New Year’s resolutions. I know you probably have yours already—I certainly do. Mine, however, is not entirely new. It’s a continuation and refinement of a lifelong goal, one that I’ll be sharing with you in this blog, along with my planner recommendations to support intentional goal-setting.
I recently stumbled upon a YouTube video by Ali Abdaal about GPS while watching content featuring Jonah from Detour Shirts. Those videos inspired me to revisit my plans and recreate them in a way that aligns with the GPS framework.
But what exactly is GPS?
GPS stands for Goal, Plan, and System.
In simple terms:
- Goal is your destination
- Plan is your roadmap
- System is how you actually stay consistent and follow through
Let’s break each of these down.
Goal: Where Do You Want to Go?
For goals, there are three key things to consider:
- What specific goal do you want to achieve?
Be clear and concrete. - Why do you want to achieve it?
Write down your intrinsic reasons—those that truly matter to you. - Anti-goals: What are you not willing to sacrifice?
These are your non-negotiables.
Plan: How Will You Get There?
Your plan should also answer three important questions:
- What are the 3–5 major moves that will get me closer to my goal?
- Is the plan realistic—both in theory and in practice?
Rate it as a percentage. If the probability of success is below 80%, you may need to revise your goal or your approach. - Crystal Ball Exercise:
What are the top three reasons this plan might fail?
Identify each obstacle and create a specific plan to address it.
System: How Will You Stay Consistent?
A goal and a plan won’t work without a system. Here are the three components you need:
- Tracking – How will you measure progress?
- Reminders – Daily journaling, weekly reviews, time blocking—what habits will keep you on track?
- Accountability – A friend, family member, or even social media.
Planner Recommendations for Goal-Setting
Before I share how I personally use the GPS method, here are five of the best planners I found on Blick that work beautifully for intentional planning.
Designed in A5 size with a soft cover, this goalbook includes 224 numbered dot-grid pages, an undated annual calendar, and an undated monthly calendar. Thoughtfully designed down to the smallest detail, it also comes with two ribbon markers, an elastic closure, and a pen loop—perfect for keeping everything organized in one place.
#2. DesignWorks Ink Undated 13-month Perpetual Planners
This hardcover planner is highly versatile and customizable. The acid-free, tree-free pages include space for daily schedules, top priorities, reminders, and gratitude—all printed with soy-based ink. Its bold covers, gold corner protectors, and twin-wire binding allow the planner to lay flat or fold back easily
#3. Elyse Breanne Color-in Daily Planner
This planner combines productivity with creativity. Each of the 52 daily sheets is divided into Top Priorities, Tasks, Appointments, and For Tomorrow, with a circle-the-date header so you can start anytime. Every page features a unique floral illustration, and the ultra-thick pages prevent ink bleeding—perfect for markers and gel pens.
#4. Kikkerland Inkerie Undated Weekly Planner
With 18 months of undated Monday–Sunday layouts, this planner offers flexibility and structure. The vertical format provides ample space for notes, while color-coded days help prevent mix-ups. Made from FSC-certified materials, it’s an eco-conscious choice as well.
#5 Moleskine Undated Weekly Planner
A timeless classic, this planner lets you start anytime with no wasted pages. Each weekly spread pairs scheduling on the left with ruled notes on the right. It includes customizable month stickers, mini calendar labels, and an expandable inner pocket—perfect for professionals, students, and creatives alike.
How I Use GPS for My Personal Goals
Below are screenshots of my plan for 2026, as well as another one focused on furnishing my newly owned condominium.
As you can see, I’m working toward two long-term goals:
- Reaching $1,000 in monthly income from print-on-demand—my benchmark for eventually leaving my BPO job
- Fully furnishing my condominium
I plan to accomplish both within the next three years, God willing, as I approach my 50th year.
My “Why”
My deeper reasons are clearly written in my plan:
- Time freedom
- Enjoying life with my family in my own home
- Financial independence
- The ability to work from anywhere
These reasons are emotionally compelling for me—and that’s important. Your “why” needs to move you emotionally, too.
My Anti-Goals
While pursuing these dreams, there are things I refuse to sacrifice:
- Eating out with my kids
- Reading books
- Bible study
- Getting enough sleep
These are my non-negotiables.
My Plan in Action
For my print-on-demand goal, my major moves include:
- Uploading designs five times a week
- Writing one blog post per week
- Creating mockups and promoting designs while uploading
All research and preparation are scheduled during my two days off so I can upload consistently during the workweek. This year, my design focus will be on niches such as Christian-themed designs and birthdays.
For furnishing my condo, my plan involves:
- Being more frugal
- Saving consistently
- Maximizing merit increases and monthly incentives
Based on my previous experience, I rated these goals at 80% realistic, both in theory and in practice. They will require discipline and determination—but they are achievable.
Crystal Ball
I also listed the top three obstacles that could prevent me from reaching my goals and wrote down specific actions to address each one.
My System
I created a monthly tracker in a blank journal to monitor my progress and keep my goals visible. This acts as both a tracking tool and a daily reminder.
And finally—accountability.
That’s the main reason I’m sharing this journey with you. By writing this blog, I’m inviting you to be my accountability partner.
Let’s work toward our goals—intentionally, consistently, and together.
Share your GPS in the comments or if you know a better way of goal-setting, I love to hear it.