Setting Goals in the New Year: An LGBTQ+ Affirming Approach to Growth

Written By Jonah Minot

The start of a new year often brings pressure to set goals, make changes, and “be better.” For many LGBTQ+ people, this pressure can feel complicated. Past experiences of rejection, religious trauma, family conflict, or systemic discrimination can make traditional goal-setting advice feel unrealistic—or even harmful.

At Resonance Columbus, we believe that goal-setting should be affirming, flexible, and grounded in self-compassion, not shame.

Rethinking Goals Through an LGBTQ+ Lens

Instead of asking, “What should I change about myself?” consider asking:

  • What would help me feel safer, more grounded, or more authentic this year?

  • Where do I want more peace instead of more pressure?

  • What boundaries would protect my energy and mental health?

Meaningful goals often center on emotional safety, identity integration, and relational well-being—not productivity or perfection.

Examples of Affirming New Year Goals

Your goals don’t need to be dramatic to be powerful. Some examples include:

  • Practicing self-advocacy in medical, family, or workplace settings

  • Reducing contact with people or environments that consistently invalidate your identity

  • Exploring what authenticity looks like now, even if it’s different from last year

  • Learning grounding skills to manage anxiety, dysphoria, or trauma triggers

  • Building chosen family or strengthening supportive relationships

These goals honor your lived experience and recognize that survival itself often requires resilience.

Small Steps Matter

Many LGBTQ+ people have been taught—explicitly or implicitly—that they must earn acceptance. Therapy can help unpack those beliefs and replace them with healthier narratives. When setting goals, think in small, achievable steps:

  • One boundary conversation instead of “fixing” a relationship

  • One coping skill practiced consistently

  • One intentional choice per week that aligns with your values

Progress doesn’t have to be linear to be meaningful.

How Therapy Can Support Your Goals

Working with an affirming therapist can help you:

  • Clarify goals that reflect your values, not external expectations

  • Address barriers like trauma, internalized shame, or burnout

  • Learn practical tools for emotional regulation and communication

  • Create accountability that feels supportive, not punitive

At Resonance Columbus, we provide LGBTQ+ affirming, trauma-informed therapy in a space where your identity is respected and celebrated.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re entering the new year wanting clarity, healing, or support, you don’t have to do it alone. We’re currently accepting new clients and would be honored to walk alongside you.

👉 Schedule a consultation or learn more at www.resonancecolumbus.com

Your goals deserve care, patience, and affirmation—just like you do.

Jonah Minot