New Year, new goals
Money matters, life matters more.
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I ditched the gym back in October, then made my triumphant return in the final three days of 2025 — so no one could mistake me for a New Year’s resolution rookie.
Life had pulled me away before, and this latest stretch — my deep dive into the stock market — was a timely reminder of how easy it is to let my own well-being slip.
Money has never been the main pursuit, but my obsession with learning the market left little room for sleep, movement, or quiet moments.
Too many mornings began with screens instead of stretching. Too many nights ended with extra research instead of proper rest.
In 2026, that changes. This year is about balance.
The past few years have been focused on learning the language of the money, testing strategies and figuring out the systems that actually work.
If you’ve been following my recent columns — like the radical shift in my Roth IRA and my stock options strategy — you know I’ve refined approaches that can produce results without constant stress.
Now I know enough to let that work in the background, freeing me to focus on the parts of life that matter most — my health, my curiosity, my energy and the simple joys that too often get crowded out.
I’m trusting the methods I’ve built and loosening my grip enough to actually enjoy life. My goals won’t just grow my accounts, they’ll grow me.
Here’s a snapshot of what I’m aiming for:
💸 Better sleep: I want to treat rest as a priority. Because everything else — focus, energy, mood — works better when I’m fully charged.
💸 Less sweets and sugary foods: A sweet treat today can cost me time, energy, money and clarity tomorrow. I’m learning to enjoy them in moderation without letting them control my day.
💸 Consistent exercise: Not for looks, not for anyone else. Just to feel strong, clear-headed and fully present in my own body.
💸 Intentional reading time: Continued learning fuels curiosity and growth. I want to dedicate 20 minutes to daily reading without feeling rushed or guilty.
💸 Walks (weather permitting): Stepping outside, breathing fresh air and moving my body gives me clarity I can’t get from a screen.
💸 Travel — at least one international trip: Breaking routine reminds me life is bigger than my daily grind. Exploring a new culture is a way to recharge and see the world differently.
💸 Generate $30,000 in options profit: This goal is ambitious, but each trade teaches discipline, strategy and patience. I’m applying what I’ve learned and aiming high.
💸 Tithe: Giving back keeps me grounded. This year, I’m experimenting with a new, more intentional approach to generosity — details coming soon!
These goals reflect the lessons from the past few years. Money matters, but it shouldn’t consume me.
I closed 2025 letting my financial ambitions overshadow the simple, essential parts of life: sleep, movement, curiosity, fresh air, connection, and yes, adventure.
This year is about doing more of what I love while honoring the foundations I’ve already built. It’s about showing up for myself in ways no brokerage account can measure.
Along this wealth journey, I want to stay present every step of the way — without losing the parts of me that make it all worthwhile.
Excellent post, Darnell, and Happy New Year to you and your family. Best wishes from Tokyo for a year filled with love, joy, and prosperity.
Great read and sound goals! Can’t wait to see how it all comes together.