By: Dr. Eva Jackson
Rethinking Goal Setting in Our Community
For the past 15 years, members of my community have routinely organized vision board parties toward the end of the year or at the start of the new year, with an emphasis on goal setting. Personally, I have often felt uncomfortable during this period, as traditional goal setting has never resonated with me. I tend to set ambitious goals but frequently find myself unable to achieve them, despite starting with clear intentions. This recurring pattern leads me to believe that perhaps my goals are often unrealistic.
The Value of Setting Intentions
In contrast, setting intentions feels more aligned with personal values and offers a more individualized approach. Unlike conventional goals, intentions are not necessarily measurable or time-bound, which may be aspects of goal setting that I find challenging. For example, intending to spend more time with family, commit to regular exercise, or reduce debt provides a sense of fulfillment without imposing strict numbers or deadlines. Achieving these intentions can be more satisfying than adhering to rigid timelines and quantitative benchmarks for future accomplishments.
Personal Intentions for the Year
This year, I plan to grow more vegetables in my garden and dedicate additional time to my family. I will collaborate with my healthcare team to make sure my health stays steady or improves. Both small successes deserve satisfaction, while major accomplishments are truly rewarding.
Intentions for the Multiple Sclerosis Community
Those of us in the multiple sclerosis community are likely looking forward to small achievements and successes in our lives that create less stress than the extensive goal setting traditions of the past. If you are reading this blog, do me a favor and intend to do three things in 2026:
- Intend on attending at least four MS community events, whether in-person or virtual events. This would be one event per quarter.
- Attend all your healthcare appointments in 2026.
- Invite at least one new friend or family member to an MS educational event.
Focusing on having more family and friends educated on multiple sclerosis improves our community of those who can recognize symptoms and care. Many research studies have shown that a healthy lifestyle can be improved, and individuals can feel more empowered when family and caregivers are involved in health-promoting behaviors. Because MS is a chronic and progressive illness, it is crucial to have those close to you educated and aware of the nature of the disease.
Hello. My name is Dr. Eva Jackson, and I am currently a guest blogger for MSAA. I completed a Doctorate in Management, Organizational Development and Change at Colorado Technical University in Denver, Colorado. My academic background also includes a Master of Science in Leadership and a Bachelor of Art in Social Services from Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi. I have previously co-owned an event planning, catering, and decorating business called NikLiz Designs with my husband of 31 years Tim Jackson. After being diagnosed with MS, my career path changed, but I continue to provide management consulting services. In addition, I participate in crafting activities and volunteer as a Peer Connections Leader and an MS activist for the National MS Society.
