I write a lot about fulfilling your goals and dreams in business and life. Yet, there are times, your life goal or desire just isn’t going to happen. Regardless of what you do, say, or think!
Sometimes goals don’t materialize because:
- Timing has passed
- Resources required are no longer available
- Your skills or mindset don’t support the requirements for the new job position or opportunities
- You’ve not taken the focused actions required
- Financial or economic realities have changed
- Your life circumstances have changed (e.g., health, energy, or priority-shift)
It may be time to pivot.
Two different examples … which one do you identify with?
#1. A 66-year-old man retired twice from the same job since he wasn’t happy sitting at home every day. The second time, he joined a men’s group, but the members didn’t offer him the energy and identity he loved (job title, interaction, and problem-solving). Based on what he said he enjoyed, I suggested he start a handyman service. But he had many reasons why not (some valid – liability for workmanship; others not valid – wanted flexibility). What he failed to understand was there are many ways to create a part-time small business and make it work. He’s still complaining about being bored.
#2. A 70-year-old woman had already accomplished a lot in her life. Yet, she had a big goal that seemed elusive, and she felt stuck. She was in action, but nothing was happening. After our conversation, she pivoted and released the old goal. Then, she found something better! Now, she’s enjoying working for a startup.
When you stop holding on to a dream or goal too tightly, other opportunities can be seen and heard.
And here’s the important part to consider: success changes as you change. What mattered at 30, 40 or 50 may not matter at 60 or 70. Today, success may look like quality of life, meaningful contribution, financial stability, and enjoying your time. It’s no longer about chasing outdated benchmarks or outdated success factors, or hanging on to an identity (e.g., job title) you’ve outgrown.
Remember, there are many new jobs and services becoming available for seniors, and others. Take advantage of them.
To Move Forward:
Forgive yourself. Write yourself a letter. Forgive that you didn’t achieve that elusive goal. Also, release the “identity” you created around it (e.g., job title, paycheck, ego, etc.). Now release it. Yes, it will pop back in your mind as you move forward. Just release it again. Remember, your ego loves to hold on to the past in the form of regrets. Acknowledge. Release asap!
Shed a few tears. Yes, you will experience regret and grief over a hope or desire you’ve hung on to for so many years. Releasing a long-time hoped-for identity is hard. Now’s the time to create what’s next.
Determine what’s possible.
- What do you realistically need: financially, health-wise, personal fulfillment, family, etc.?
- What is a realistic goal to achieve at least one of them?
- What would be fun to do or have?
- Where would you really like to live?
For example, if you wish to travel, buying a house or condo may not be the best investment for you given the upkeep, property taxes, and other required (escalating HOA) monthly payments.
Questions to ask yourself and journal (remember, writing engages your brain differently than using electronics to answer these questions):
- What would be the best goal or desire for me to pursue? (Set aside your ego!)
- Where can I live and easily pay my expenses each month?
- What can I do part-time to ensure I’m having fun and doing things I enjoy?
- What groups or other activities could I participate in?
Get the support required. In story #2 above, her husband paid for my executive coaching services to help his wife clarify what was realistic. Afterwards, she became easier to live with, and happier too.
Now, do the work. Remember, small steps forward with focused actions! Time to get in action!
**Below is a gift: “Move Forward” Game Plan (Fun Edition) to get you focused. Have fun!
©Jeannette Seibly 2026 All Rights Reserved
Jeannette Seibly is a legacy‑driven Talent Advisor, Leadership Results Coach, and Business Author. For over 33 years, she has empowered thousands of executives and business leaders to achieve sustainable success through strategic hiring, values‑based coaching, and intentional leadership development. Her work blends clarity, accountability, and soulful impact—activating performance and purpose at every level.
**Your “Move Forward” Game Plan (Fun Edition)
- Name the dream you’re releasing
Pick one goal you’ve quietly carried for years. The one that’s no longer aligned with your life, energy, or priorities. Give it a name. Something humorous or symbolic. Then retire it quietly and confidently.
“My Great Leadership Fantasy is now officially retired.”
This clears emotional space for what’s next.
- Define your new success markers
Three simple categories (or pick ones that resonant with you and don’t overthink them):
- Ease — What makes my life smoother?
- Joy — What reliably lifts my spirit?
- Impact — What feels meaningful to me right now?
These become your new scorecard.
- Choose one lifestyle pivot based on what you “really really really want to do” and stop putting it off.
Based on your new focus pick just one. Something that aligns with your current reality and desires.
Examples:
- Write a memoir for your family or a children’s book
- Move to a different living environment
- Shift the type of clients you pursue and your work hours
- Designate more travel days
- Choose fun projects, not “stress-filled” ones
- Create your “small steps” ladder
Five tiny actions that move you forward. Not big leaps, just daily micro‑moves.
For example:
- One conversation
- One email
- One exploration (e.g., craft store, talk with a tennis pro – the list is endless)
- One financial check-in (e.g., work with a financial planner, list out your expenses and income)
- One joyful activity (e.g., walking, day-trip)
Set up a structure to keep you moving forward. Remember, small steps are your superpower and create your momentum.
- Add one delight to your week
A walk, a new coffee shop, a conversation, a class, a trip, a hobby.
This keeps your energy buoyant and your creativity alive.
- Celebrate your pivot
You’ve done a lot of hard work over the years. Celebrate with writing out and celebrating your brags! You’ll be amazed by what you’ve accomplished … and it feels good too. You can also use this to share your legacy with your family.
You’ve now designed your next chapter to be lighter, clearer, and more aligned. Mark the shift with a dinner, a toast, a note to yourself, or a new journal/notebook. Remember, make this time real and fun. But don’t be afraid to pivot as you move forward and discover new opportunities and interests.
©Jeannette Seibly 2026 All Rights Reserved