Introduction
Let’s be honest: setting goals is easy, but sticking to them? That’s a whole other story.
We’ve all been there. January rolls around, and we write down our New Year’s resolutions with fiery passion. Lose weight. Start a business. Learn a language. Quit smoking. But by February, that passion fizzles out like a sparkler in the rain.
This is where the concept of tarnplanen (Swedish for goal plan) comes in—a structured, meaningful way to not only set goals but to actually achieve them. It’s more than just making a to-do list. It’s about mapping out a life that aligns with your values, passions, and long-term dreams.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What tarnplanen really means
- Why most people fail to reach their goals
- A proven, step-by-step method for creating your own goal plan
- Real-life anecdotes to inspire and motivate you
- Tips to stay consistent, even when life gets tough
So, grab a coffee (or tea), sit back, and let’s get to work on designing the life you actually want to live.
What Is Tarnplanen?
Tarnplanen is a Swedish term that loosely translates to “the goal plan” or “the plan for your goals.” It’s a systematic way to turn abstract dreams into concrete, actionable steps. Think of it like a GPS for your life: you tell it where you want to go, and it helps guide you there, step by step.
But it’s more than a checklist. A good goal plan includes:
- Clarity about what you want and why
- Milestones that track your progress
- Timeframes to keep you on schedule
- Flexibility to adjust when life throws curveballs
- Motivation to keep going, even when it’s hard
Whether you’re aiming for personal growth, career development, better health, or something else, tarnplanen is your roadmap.
Why Most People Fail to Achieve Their Goals
Before we dive into building your goal plan, let’s first understand why most goals fail. Knowing the pitfalls helps you avoid them.
1. Vague goals
Saying “I want to be healthier” is too general. What does “healthier” mean to you? Losing weight? Sleeping more? Eating better?
2. No plan
A dream without a plan is just a wish. Without a structured tarnplanen, you’re likely to wander aimlessly.
3. No deadlines
Deadlines create urgency. Without them, procrastination becomes your best friend.
4. Lack of motivation
Willpower fades. Life gets busy. That’s why relying only on motivation is risky.
5. No accountability
When no one knows your goals, it’s easy to give up without consequences.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Own Tarnplanen
Now that we know what not to do, let’s build a powerful, personalized goal plan that sets you up for success.
Step 1: Define Your “Why”
Before setting any goal, ask yourself: Why does this matter to me?
Example:
Anna, a 35-year-old teacher in Stockholm, wanted to lose 10kg. But when she dug deeper, she realized her real motivation was to feel more confident playing with her kids and avoid health issues her parents had. That emotional connection kept her going when workouts got tough.
Tip: Your “why” should make you feel something. If it doesn’t, it won’t drive you.
Step 2: Choose SMART Goals
You’ve probably heard this before, but it works. SMART stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Realistic
- Time-bound
Example:
“I want to read more”
“I will read 2 books per month for the next 6 months.”
Step 3: Break Goals into Mini-Milestones
Big goals can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps.
Example:
If your goal is to launch a blog in 3 months, break it into:
- Week 1: Choose your niche
- Week 2–3: Design your site
- Week 4: Write your first 3 posts
- Month 2: Promote your blog
- Month 3: Start email marketing
Each step gives you a mini-win that boosts motivation.
Step 4: Schedule It
If it’s not on your calendar, it probably won’t happen.
Block time in your week for goal-related tasks. Treat them like doctor’s appointments—non-negotiable.
Step 5: Set Up a System
Create routines and habits that support your tarnplanen.
Example:
If your goal is to run a marathon, create a habit of running every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 7 a.m.
Automate what you can. Use tools like:
- Habit trackers (e.g., Habitica, Streaks)
- Calendars (Google Calendar, Notion)
- Accountability apps (Coach.me)
Step 6: Review and Adjust
Life changes. Goals shift. That’s okay.
Review your tarnplanen weekly or monthly. Ask:
- What’s working?
- What’s not?
- Do I still want this goal?
Don’t be afraid to pivot.
Real-Life Anecdote: Erik’s Journey from Procrastinator to Podcaster
Let’s talk about Erik, a 28-year-old graphic designer from Gothenburg.
For years, Erik wanted to start a podcast. He had ideas, the gear, and even a logo. But months passed, and he never launched. Why? No plan.
One day, he decided to build a proper tarnplanen. He broke the process into weekly tasks:
- Week 1: Finalize podcast concept
- Week 2: Write episode outlines
- Week 3: Record pilot
- Week 4: Edit and publish
With his plan laid out, Erik finally launched. Six months later, he has over 5,000 monthly listeners.
The secret wasn’t talent—it was structure.
Common Goal Areas for Your Tarnplanen
Let’s look at some popular areas where you can apply tarnplanen:
Personal Development
- Learn a new language
- Build better habits
- Read more books
- Practice meditation
Health and Fitness
- Lose weight
- Run a 5K
- Eat plant-based meals
- Sleep 8 hours
Career Goals
- Ask for a promotion
- Start a business
- Learn coding
- Improve public speaking
Financial Goals
- Save for a house
- Pay off debt
- Create a budget
- Invest in stocks
Relationships
- Spend more quality time with family
- Improve communication
- Join social groups
- Reconnect with old friends
Choose one or two to focus on at a time. Don’t overload yourself.
How to Stay Motivated and Accountable
Even the best goal plan needs fuel to keep going. Here’s how to stay on track:
1. Track Your Progress
Use a journal or app. Seeing your wins adds momentum.
2. Get an Accountability Buddy
Tell someone your goals. Check in weekly.
3. Visualize the End Result
Picture your success every day. This rewires your brain to believe it’s possible.
4. Reward Yourself
Celebrate milestones with small rewards—a nice meal, a day off, new shoes.
. Be Kind to Yourself
Progress isn’t linear. Some weeks will be hard. Don’t quit over a bad day.
Bonus: Tools to Support Your Tarnplanen
Want some tools to help you build and track your goal plan?
| Notion | Planning and tracking | Free/Paid |
| Trello | Task management | Free |
| Todoist | Daily task checklist | Free/Paid |
| Habitica | Habit tracking via gamification | Free |
| Google Keep | Quick notes and reminders | Free |
| Forest App | Focus timer with tree growth | Paid |
Pick 1–2 tools that fit your style. Don’t overcomplicate it.
Final Thoughts
The journey of achieving your goals doesn’t start with motivation—it starts with a plan. A tarnplanen is that plan. It gives structure to your dreams and a way to actually live the life you imagine.
It won’t always be easy. But it will be worth it.
So, ask yourself:
- What do I really want?
- Why do I want it?
- What’s my first small step?
Then start. Because the best time to plant the seed of your dream… was yesterday. The next best time? Right now.
