'Stop "Trying Harder" in 2026, Start Designing Your Life'

Hey FunLifers, 

Your 2026 results are built… before you ever “feel motivated.”

If you want real change in 2026 — the kind that lasts past the first few weeks of January — here’s the truth:

Your environment will dictate your results.

Motivation is nice. It’s not reliable.

But systems + standards + environment? That’s the cheat code.

Below is the framework I use in my annual kickoff meetings, with clients, and personally — because it’s simple, repeatable, and it works.

1) Start with SMART goals (but do them right)

Most people don’t fail because they’re “lazy.”

They fail because their goals are vague and untrackable.

SMART Goals:

• Specific: “Lose weight” becomes “Lose 12 lbs.”

• Measurable: weigh-ins, photos, InBody, performance metrics, spending trackers

• Attainable: big goals can be “borderline unrealistic” in the macro… but digestible in the micro

• Relevant: aligned with what you actually care about

• Time-bound: deadlines create urgency

If you don’t have a target, you’re not on a track — you’re just doing stuff.

2) Alignment equals fulfillment

Before you set the plan… ask:

• Why is this goal important to me?

• Is this for me… or for my ego / other people?

• What goals have I failed before — and why?

• What goals have I hit before — and what worked?

Your history is data. Use it.

When your goals are aligned, you’re not just “more disciplined” — you’re more fulfilled. And that’s what keeps things moving when motivation disappears.

3) Build accountability systems (this is where most people win or lose)

One of my favorite reminders:

“We don’t rise to our goals — we fall to our standards and systems.”

Here are the accountability levers that actually move the needle:

A) Partners / people

Train with a friend. Join a class. Tell someone your plan.

The second your goal involves another human, your follow-through goes up.

B) Invest into your goals

Money isn’t the only investment — but it’s a powerful one.

When you have something to lose, you take it seriously.

That’s why “bet on yourself” challenges work.

C) Systems (reverse-engineer the plan)

Don’t just write the goal. Build the workflow:

• when you train

• when you shop

• when you meal prep

• how you schedule sleep

• how you track money

• what’s removed from your environment

D) Track + measure

Tracking creates awareness. Awareness leads to execution.

If it’s working: momentum.

If it’s not: adjust early — not 6 months later.

E) Public accountability

Say it out loud. Post it. Tell the team.

You’re far more likely to follow through when other people know the standard you set.

F) Rewards + milestones

Big goals need mile markers.

Not just “the finish line” — but proof you’re progressing.

G) Professional help

Coaches, therapists, mentors, planners, advisors.

You don’t need to do everything alone — and you don’t get bonus points for struggling solo.

4) Environment > motivation

Want to eat better? Clear the pantry first.

Want to train after work? Bring your gym clothes with you.

Want fewer distractions? Make the bad habit harder to do.

You can’t fight willpower 24/7.

Design your world so the right choice is the easy choice.

5) Identity change comes first (and it’s built through evidence)

The goal isn’t just “lose 25 lbs.”

The goal is: become the person who doesn’t skip.

The person who trains even when tired.

The person who keeps promises to themselves.

Identity is built through:

• small wins

• repeated evidence

• systems that support the standard

Your move for the next 7 days

If you want a simple, actionable start:

1. Write down your top 3 goals (health / wealth / relationships — whatever matters most)

2. Make each one SMART

3. Build one accountability system for each goal

4. Change one environment factor that removes friction or removes temptation

5. Track it for 7 days — no perfection needed, just consistency

Let’s make this year different. 

-Corey + FL Coaches