As a new year begins, many of us think about resolutions, priorities, and the impact we want to make. But one simple habit can dramatically increase the likelihood of achieving your goals: writing them down. It may sound small, but studies suggest that people who record their goals are 1.2 to 1.4 times more likely to accomplish them. The act of putting thoughts into words isn’t just symbolic—it actually changes how your brain processes and retains information.

The Science Behind Writing Things Down

When you write your goals or key insights, two powerful things happen:

  • External Storage: Your brain has limited capacity for short-term and long-term memory. Writing things down creates a record you can reference later, reducing cognitive overload and helping you stay organized.
  • Deeper Encoding: Writing engages your brain in active processing, reinforcing the information and helping it move into long-term memory. This is often called the generation effect, meaning we are naturally biased toward remembering ideas we generate ourselves. By writing goals in your own words, you strengthen both understanding and recall.

Research in cognitive science supports this. Writing your intentions and reflecting on them helps improve focus, decision-making, and even emotional resilience. Leaders who adopt this habit often notice they’re more intentional, more present, and better equipped to guide their teams.

Practical Ways to Integrate Goal Writing

You don’t need fancy tools to get started. What matters is consistency and clarity. Here are some practical approaches:

  • Use a dedicated journal: A simple notebook or planner can be surprisingly effective. The tactile act of writing on paper helps reinforce memory and focus.
  • Digital tools with purpose: Devices like the Remarkable 2, or apps designed for note-taking, allow you to write without distractions, keeping your focus on your goals instead of notifications.
  • Daily reflection: Spend 5–10 minutes each day noting progress, insights, or adjustments needed. This turns goal setting into a continuous, actionable process rather than a one-time activity.
  • Be specific and measurable: Instead of vague intentions like “improve leadership skills,” write down concrete actions, such as “schedule weekly one-on-one meetings with team members to provide feedback and guidance.”

Why Leaders Benefit Most

Leaders face constant demands and competing priorities. Writing down goals and key reflections gives structure to decision-making, improves accountability, and fosters self-awareness. It also models intentionality for your team—demonstrating that focus and follow-through are core values. Over time, journaling and written goal-setting can create a culture of clarity and purpose within your organization.

Getting Started

This year, consider making writing a core part of your leadership practice. Whether it’s daily goal setting, weekly reflections, or tracking team progress, taking the time to put your intentions into words can dramatically enhance focus, productivity, and impact.

By writing, you’re not just planning—you’re encoding your priorities into your brain, making success more achievable, and leading with clarity and purpose.