As we edge closer to 2026, I’ve been thinking about something that matters far more than goal-setting.
Not what you want to do next year.
But who you need to be for those goals to actually happen.
I read something recently from Peter Sage that stuck with me. This time of year isn’t just about slowing down, it’s about preparing for a leap. The identity you step into now dictates the results you see later.
And honestly…that’s where most plans fall apart.
We set targets, write lists and promise ourselves this year will be different.
But we don’t change the person showing up to make that happen.
So before you rush into 2026 with another set of resolutions, I want to invite you to pause and work on the foundations instead…
Identity, habits, mindset and consistency.
Below is a curated set of resources I genuinely recommend. They’re practical, grounded and designed to give you a brilliant new year without burnout.
Take what resonates with you, ignore what doesn’t and save the rest for later.
Start here: Identity before outcomes
James Clear explains this better than anyone. This short piece alone can change how you approach goals permanently:
If you want the full framework behind that idea:
https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
Podcasts for long walks, drives or thinking time
These are all great listens when you want to recalibrate how you’re showing up day to day.
Finding Mastery (performance, psychology, resilience):
https://findingmastery.com
I particularly love this episode with Brene Brown:
Optimal Living Daily (short, daily mindset resets):
https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j
The Tim Ferriss Show (deep dives into how high performers became who they are):
https://tim.blog/podcast
Happier with Gretchen Rubin (habits, consistency, and self-knowledge):
https://gretchenrubin.com/podcasts
You might find this episode especially useful right now:
Books that shape identity, not just productivity
Please note these are not affiliate links.
Atomic Habits – James Clear
https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299
The 5am Club – Robin Sharma
https://www.amazon.com/5AM-Club-Morning-Elevates-Life/dp/1443456624
Inner Engineering – Sadhguru
https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Engineering-Yogis-Guide-Joy/dp/0812997794/
How to See Yourself As You Really Are – The Dalai Lama
https://www.amazon.com/How-See-Yourself-You-Really/dp/0743290461/
Watch this before you set any goals
This TED Talk is especially relevant if you rely on self-discipline, creativity, and consistency for your income:
It reinforces the idea that small identity-aligned changes beat big promises every time
If you prefer YouTube, this interview with James Clear is also worth your time:
A simple reflection to end the year
Before you plan anything else, ask yourself:
Who do I need to become for my 2026 goals to feel inevitable?
What habits would that version of me already have?
What would they stop tolerating?
How would they show up on ordinary days, not just motivated ones?
That’s where real change starts.
I’ll be here in 2026 sharing tools, ideas and all sorts of other good stuff to help you build that version of yourself – steadily, realistically and in a way that works.
Until then, think of this week not as a pause but a launchpad.
I created this for you to help with that – my gift to you not just for the holiday season but the coming year:
To great things in 2026!
Amanda
