How to set achievable goals that align with your demanding career—without sacrificing ambition or results
Published by Ian Pierce
January 13, 2025
The biggest mistake busy professionals make: They set goals based on what influencers achieve—not what's realistic for someone working 60-hour weeks. Here's how to set goals that actually work.
You've probably set fitness goals before. Maybe you wanted to lose 30 lbs in 12 weeks, train 6 days per week, or look like a fitness model by summer.
The problem? These goals ignore your reality: demanding work schedule, travel, client dinners, stress, limited time. They're designed for people whose job IS fitness—not for professionals with actual responsibilities.
You've probably heard of SMART goals. We add one more letter: R for Realistic with your lifestyle. Here's how to apply it:
Define exactly what success looks like with measurable metrics.
❌ Vague:
"Get in better shape"
✅ Specific:
"Reduce body fat from 22% to 14%"
Track progress with data you can measure weekly.
Trackable Metrics:
Set goals based on realistic fat loss rates: 0.5-1% body weight per week.
❌ Unrealistic:
"Lose 30 lbs in 8 weeks" (3.75 lbs/week)
✅ Achievable:
"Lose 20 lbs in 16 weeks" (1.25 lbs/week)
Align your goal with your bigger life priorities.
Ask yourself:
Set a deadline, but build in buffer for real life.
Recommended Timelines:
Add Buffer Time For:
This is the missing piece. Your goal must fit your actual life—not an idealized version.
Lifestyle Audit Questions:
"I will reduce my body fat from 22% to 14% over 20 weeks by training 4x/week, hitting 200g protein daily, and tracking my weight weekly—while maintaining my work performance and traveling 6 days per month."
The Pierce Protocol helps you set realistic goals tailored to your lifestyle—and gives you the system to actually achieve them.