2026 Goals!

 

I love setting goals for myself. It helps keep me motivated and on track (kinda of). Here are my goals for 2026. Let's GOOOOO!!! 

1. Roth IRA. I want to max out my contributions to my Roth IRA this year. The contribution limit was raised to $7,500 for 2026 and I want to make sure I hit that limit. Future me will thank me later. 

2. 401k. I want to increase my contribution to my 401k. I am currently contributing 10% of my $175k salary. I plan to increase that amount to 11% or 12% this year depending on the amount of my raise. 

3. Income. I want to increase my salary to $200k this year. However, I would be satisfied with a raise to $187,500. Performance reviews are in April and I have been compiling my list of achievements. I plan to include reference to motions won, case closure rate, settlements for less than X number of dollars, new business brought in, etc. I have a feeling this will be a tough ask, not because I am underperforming but more because my boss is cheap. 

4. Savings. I want to increase my savings (general savings and emergency fund) to a total of approximately $75,000. This is for emergencies like job loss, repairs/replacement and general savings like home improvements, window replacements, etc. I believe I am at approximately $65k right now. 

5. Mortgage. I want to pay the mortgage down to under $90k this year. I'm excited with the prospect of getting the mortgage down under 6 figures. I might actually have a shot at having the mortgage paid off in 15 years! 

6. Health. I want to get healthy. This means gain muscle mass, loss weight, eat healthier, exercise consistently, get outside in the sunshine and spend less time in front of my computer. 

7. Mind. I want to engage my mind outside of work more. This means reading books, engaging in new hobbies, physical movement to improve mood, enjoying life more and a better work life balance. 

8. Travel. I want to take at least 4 trips this year. This will also go towards my other goals of trying to enjoy life more and having a more balanced life. 

9. Work. I want to bring in more clients so I can get more origination fees. I want to win more motions, be more efficient, be more organized, and become an extremely well-respected lawyer among my peers and Judges. 

10. Spending. I want to focus on spending less money on online shopping. This has become a bad habit since Covid and I want to break myself of it! 

What are your 2026 goals? Do you make goals? Does making goals help you stay motivated or on track? 

With love, Michelle.