How A 68-Year-Old's Lifelong Habit Of Writing Goals Since High School Led Her To Become A CEO

At just 18, Julia Stewart started writing down a straightforward list of goals each day, a practice so modest it seemed almost trivial. Today, five decades later at 68 years old, she stands as the CEO of a thriving company, her success a testament to the impact of consistent, purposeful action.

Her strategy for success serves as an inspiration for countless students who are on the verge of starting their careers now, illustrating that sometimes, greatness begins with the simplest of steps.

Also read: Time Management Is Key For Students: Try The Pomodoro Technique To Complete Your Study Goals

Life goals since the age of 18

Julia Stewart, who became IHOP's (an American multinational pancake house) first-ever female CEO in 2002, has spent roughly two decades as a chief executive.

Julia Stewart/ Franchising.com

Currently, she holds the same position at Alurx, a wellness company she founded in 2020.

For about five decades now, Julia Stewart has maintained a list of life goals, which she keeps framed on her desk.

Unsplash

Stewart told CNBC Make It, "I started my first life goals when I graduated from high school. I¡¯ve changed them, usually, around every 10 years."

Her goals have consistently revolved around three main categories: career, personal life, and giving back.

Currently, her list comprises ten entries, covering various aspects from family-focused goals such as nurturing her relationships with her husband and children, to personal reminders like being a great friend and practicing gratitude daily, and also prioritising self-care for her body, heart, and soul.

How the act of goal setting can set one up for success

Goal Setting

A study titled "The Gender Gap and Goal-Setting" has revealed that both men and women alike must significantly enhance their practice of documenting their goals.

As per a report by Forbes, articulating goals vividly through written expression correlates strongly with achieving them.

It also states that individuals who vividly depict or visualise their goals are shown to be 1.2 to 1.4 times more likely to successfully accomplish them compared to those who don¡¯t.

This is because the act of writing down goals serves multiple purposes, including clarifying objectives, boosting motivation, fostering accountability, enhancing focus and determination, and ultimately contributing to increased life satisfaction and overall well-being.

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