All It Takes Is a Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential

by Jon Acuff

"This is my new favorite book about goals!" -- Mel Robbins , podcaster and New York Times bestselling author of The High 5 Habit


What if you could have a fulfilling career, a thriving marriage, strong friendships, and rewarding hobbies, all while being in the best shape of your life? What if every day you lived was better than the one before? What if tapping into your potential wasn't as hard as you think?

According to New York Times bestselling author Jon Acuff, it might not be. In fact, All It Takes Is a Goal . In his ninth book, he shows you how to plan goals that you're guaranteed to reach by focusing on your best moments, navigating the three zones of performance, and finding ways to fuel your passions, all while actually enjoying the ride.

Sound too good to be true? Jon thought so too. Until it happened--again and again--for him and the hundreds of real people in his research project. Whether your goals are personal, relational, or career-driven, the key to a better future is closer than you think.

"Wow! This is one of those rare books that will make you take action and see serious results immediately. Really."-- Patrick Lencioni , bestselling author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and The Six Types of Working Genius

"Jon Acuff brilliantly provides the road map to activating the potential within us."-- Nona Jones , speaker, technology executive, and author of Killing Comparison

"If you're looking for the inspiration and instruction you need to shape your own world, you're holding it in your hands."-- Donald Miller , CEO of Business Made Simple

"Jon will gently tap you on the shoulder, remind you of your goals, and pull you in the delightful direction you were headed before you became stuck, distracted, discouraged, or off course."-- Bob Goff , author of the New York Times bestsellers Love Does , Everybody Always , Dream Big , and Undistracted

"If you've ever wondered if you're capable of more, consider this book the resounding 'Yes!' you've been waiting for all your life."-- Steven Pressfield , New York Times bestselling author of The War of Art

"The best book about goals I've ever read!"-- Jon Gordon , twelve-time bestselling author of The Power of Positive Leadership

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Personal Development, Productivity, Audiobook, Business, Personal Growth

272 pages, Hardcover

First published September 12, 2023

About the author

Jon Acuff is the New York Times Bestselling author of eight books, including Soundtracks, Your New Playlist, and the Wall Street Journal #1 bestseller Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done.

When he’s not writing or recording his popular podcast, All It Takes Is a Goal, Acuff can be found on a stage, as one of INC's Top 100 Leadership Speakers. He's spoken to hundreds of thousands of people at conferences, colleges and companies around the world including FedEx, Nissan, Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, Chick-fil-A, Nokia and Comedy Central.

For over 20 years he's also helped some of the biggest brands tell their story, including The Home Depot, Bose, Staples, and the Dave Ramsey Team.

Jon lives outside of Nashville, TN with his wife Jenny and two teenage daughters.

Reviews

[❋ Booked Out Today ❋ · Rating 5 out of 5]

All It Takes is a Goal by Jon Acuff

Non Fiction | Self-Help | Goal Setting

•Do you find it difficult to achieve the goals that you have set for yourself. Jon Acuff breaks down how easy it is to live a fulfilling life and smash those goals that allow us to live life to our full potential.
•This is probably the first self-help book that has actually been useful and simple. It forces you to think about all the “feel good moments” in your life to investigate who you truly are as a person. I began searching for “feel good moments” in all parts of my day. Jon’s advice was straightforward and easy to follow. This audiobook came at a fantastic time as I am beginning my new wellness journey. I loved the audiobook extras and the connection that Jon made with his listeners. I would definitely pick up another Jon Acuff book when I’m looking for direction in my life.

★★★★★ 5/5

(Thank you Netgalley for an ARC)

[Melody Dalgleish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book exceeds all expectations. I have been reading Jon Acuff’s books, listening to him at conferences, and have subscribed to his podcasts for years. I am even a member of his Guaranteed Goals Community. I had an idea of what would be in this book, and yet I still finished it feeling as though I was holding a cheat code in my hand. I struggle with books and speakers full of great ideas but no practical steps to achieve them. This book is a step by step guide to achieving your goals, guaranteed: declutter your house, get in shape, write a book, start a business, learn to knit…ANYTHING.
This book will go on my Mount Rushmore of books, and will definitely be one that I both recommend and give away often!

[Stephanie Anne Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Acuff's books just keep getting better and better! His perspectives and advice on goal setting makes daunting dreams become possible. My favorite thing about Jon is that he feels like a real person, like getting advice from a friend. This isn't an author sitting high above us on some impossible mountain saying "if you were more like me, you'd be okay". Jon's down here in the trenches with us, sharing his authentic journey to becoming the best person he can be. He instills the belief that no matter where I'm starting from, I can get where I want to go, guaranteed :)

[Hannah Brencher]

I just finished this book, and I loved it! So many solid examples and the author really broke down goal-setting in an easy and approachable way! I am already applying a bunch of the tips from the book to my goal-planning for the month ahead!

[Gijs Limonard · Rating 2 out of 5]

1,5 stars; highly derivative, vapid musings on the myriad blessings of stating and pursuing a goal in life; all filler, avoid. Half a point for the term ‘calendar heist’ which was entertaining and new. For a genuinely inspiring work on getting your goals at the center of your endeavors be sure to check out Simon Sinek’s excellent; ‘Find your why’: Find Your Why: A Practical Guide to Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team and The Infinite Game.

[Angela Ruh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a completely “hands-on, here are the action steps to take” sort of book on goals. It explains so much about what has tripped me up when trying to achieve goals in the past. I’ve already implemented several suggestions from this book.

[Suz · Rating 5 out of 5]

New year New me? Vision boarding?

Acuff shows why the popular notions of resolutions and vision boarding generally don't work for people because they are only focused on an ideal future and not grounded in a realistic sense of self.

He encourages readers to examine the past to understand how to make plans for the future and break down goals into easy, middle, and guaranteed goals.

I greatly appreciate the specific examples from people who have participated in his research project that led to the writing of this book. So often people are encouraged to write SMART goals, but Acoff takes a different approach.

I read through the book and am starting to set easy, middle, and guaranteed goals, however I definitely need to reread the book because there was so much information that's incredibly relevant, clear, and actionable.

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!

[Chiara Cokieng · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on goals.

And by best I mean, it is pragmatic (doesn’t make you FIGURE OUT YOUR GRAND VISION OF LIFE), inspiring, and engaging.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the version of Acuff’s book written for teens with his daughters, I wanted to check out the original version for adults. It’s really terrific to help figure out your motivations (by examining your list of Best Moments), and then creating easy, middle, and “guaranteed goals” to drive your own performance. Reward systems, score sheets, etc are also included to help you stick with your plan(s) in each of 5 key arenas (“games”): career, relationships, health, finances, and fun. If you are ready to motivate yourself to stop doom-scrolling and get sh*t done, this book is practical, relatable, and I enjoy Acuff’s semi-self-deprecating humor. Even he admits that some easy goals have taken him weeks to just get around to doing, not because they are hard (often they take just minutes) but because the reward isn’t yet clear. If you do nothing but start writing your Best Moments list, you’ll at least have a lot of things to smile about and be grateful.
The author narrates the audiobook and even throws in some audio extras. He also points us listeners to his public website where the scorecards and other templates can be found.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5🌟
I listened to this on audio and really enjoyed the author's down to earth, humorous style. I feel like he has a different way of looking at things which was very cool and there are some things that I am going to implement.

[Rose Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow - didn't think I would have another 5-star read this year, but I loved this book! Very creative and relatable perspective on Goal setting. I really liked Jon's writing style and how the book was tied together at the end. I've already started my "easy goals" and created a checklist to track them! Looking forward to seeing how far these Goal principals will take me.

[Michelle Fournier judd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Jon Acuff shares practical and actionable advice around goal setting and completion in his latest book. Jon’s advice stems from research and real life experience. He’s honest about what has worked and not worked, and why, for he and others. His processes and stories are shared with Jon’s signature humor and self deprecating style, making this an easy read. Jon is a self proclaimed goal nerd who has figured out ways to make setting and reaching goals clear and actionable. You might not be an Acuff level goal nerd, but you’ll take away a few ideas to improve your own odds of succeeding with goals.

[Brandon Hair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Acuff’s done it again! Taking often over complicated things and breaking them down into small actionable steps is something a lot of people struggle to do. In All it Takes is a Goal, Jon lays out a very simple process for ensuring you meet your goals. He makes breaking down massive goals simple and fun turning just about anything into a game. But not just any game, a game you can actually win. Pick up All it Takes is a Goal and get ready to start crushing your crazy goals and pursuing your big dreams!

[Leigh J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon has done it again! Using the approaches and tools in this book are straightforward and lead to immediate positive results. With his approachable style and humor, Jon makes every goal you might dream up achievable. This book will lead to what really matters you, and how to achieve your life’s goals and dreams in a calm, consistent way that builds upon itself. If you have goals this book is a must read!

[Jennifer Pinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Acuff did it again! He created another book that I feel like spoke directly to me and inspired me to make improvements to my life. He also did so in a way that is manageable and easy to follow. I have found myself finding creative ways to work on goals for myself and even my elementary age children. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to complete goals in their lives!!

[Dean Libby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon’s intuitive and humorous way of breaking huge goals into actionable steps makes this book one that even those who have given up on accomplishing goals in their life a must-read. But more importantly, it makes this book a must-implement!

[Victoria Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was helpful and I’ve used a number of the strategies to make changes. I particularly loved the exercise where you list all your best moments, it’s a great way to reframe your thinking. Will be referring back to this a lot.

[Sarah Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really appreciate how all of Jon’s advice/tips/tricks are actionable and realistic.

[Irina Oganesyan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best nonfiction I’ve read since recently

[Joshua Southard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Acuff is funny, positive, and excitable. I like his style, and this little book was just what I needed in the dark of winter. Jon talks about being a late bloomer and finally unlocking his potential with the power of goals. He explains that there are three types of goals he uses: easy goals, middle goals, and guaranteed goals. He also explains two different ways to generate goals: dreams or fears. Goals can be used to win at any of the five big games of life: career, finances, relationships, health, and fun.

Easy goals are easy. They are designed to get you out of your comfort zone and try out new things. Sometimes they can be a tiny step to generate momentum on that big scary dream you have. An easy goal should sound unimpressive when you tell your friends and take less than an hour per week. They should feel good. You should reward yourself for completing them. Examples of easy goals would be: going for a walk, having lunch with a mentor, eating one new type of vegetable, or taking an art class.

Middle goals are harder than easy goals. They should grow out of easy goals. You can grow your easy goals into middle goals if you find something you enjoy. Middle goals are important for going slow and calmly toward a dream. Middle goals should take about five hours a week. Middle goals can also feel good and start to take big chunks out of a monster dream or fear. Middle goals will require some restructuring of your schedule to fit in. Middle goals should not be over the top into the chaos zone. Middle goals would be to go to the gym two times per week, sign up for a class to advance your career, meet with a group of friends every week to talk about life, or work on your vegetable garden.

Guaranteed goals are hard. These are the big goals that will change your life. These are the goals that you integrate into your calendar. They are guaranteed because if you put in the work, you will absolutely win in one of the big games of life. A guaranteed goal sounds impressive or impossible if you tell your friends. It will take deliberate scheduling. It will change your priorities. I realized I have some of these types of goals already set up in my own life. I just didn’t know what to call them. They look more like systems. A guaranteed goal looks like this: complete 150 CrossFit workouts this year, spend 800 hours crafting book ideas, review your personal finances each week, and write down 1-3 actions to improve during your review, complement your wife 365 times this year.

How do you know if you are winning? Scorecards. Scorecards need to be visible, and usable. They can take any useful form. I have a few scorecards that I use and I am trying to think up other areas that a scorecard would help. The kids use a bingo card version of a scorecard for their monthly reading goals. I have a spreadsheet to track my 10,000 pushups each year. How do you score your progress?

One more big topic covered in the book is the Best Moments List. You can make this list by writing down any/all of your best moments. They will fall into one of the following categories: experiences, accomplishments, relationships, or objects. Sometimes they will fit into more than one category. Building this list allows you to see those areas of your life that can be leveraged to make more awesome best moments. It will also give you data to see which category you are wired to appreciate most.

This is for anyone looking for better language and targets about goals.
(Rated G, Score 9/10, audiobook read by the author, 5:37)

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to and then read this book because Sarah Mackenzie loved it so much. It gave me a great deal to think about.
I am currently working on my Homeschool best moments list and I am sure that will also morph into a overall Best Moments list for life

You can’t take action on an idea you can’t even define - I loved this and it speaks right to the “am I doing enough for my children (in their homeschool)?” Enough for what? Define that first

I picked a big game for each of the categories Acuff lists:
Career - Graduate 6 saved, well adjusted, happy children from our homeschool
Finances - send every child on a mission trip; move back to Hawaii for a sabbatical in 6 years
Relationships - love and support my husband , strong relationships with all the children, encourage homeschool moms
Health - Remain healthy and strong enough to carry and enjoy grandchildren, dance with Frank, never contract Alzheimer’s
Fun - Read, Teach and act in Shakespeare, Travel to all the continents (5 so far); learn Latin, activity with my boys, sail again in Hawaii

I have taken each of these goals and looked at what counts towards them. What is in my control to make them happen? What easy and middle goals further these?

I loved all Acuff said about Easy Goals feeling like “not enough” and then Middle Goals having consistency before you get quality.

The Hardest part of a journey is the MIDDLE!

When you are a witness nothing can change your mind. I am not just a believer in Christ. I am a witness to what He has done in my own life. Acuff said this about being a witness to what goals have done in his own life but the truth is the same with Christ.

Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle

[Darcy Schock · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a great book on starting off your new year with a bang, All it Takes is a Goal by Jon Acuff is perfect.

Jon mixes his signature style of humor and wisdom to teach us about goals. I was so hesitant to read this book because I can get way too obsessive with goals. To the point I squeeze the life out of my life.

But regardless of my fears around goals, this book kept calling out to me so I got it on audible and listened to it.

It didn’t push my striving button. It actually awakened my striving-strained eyes to see goals in a much better light. A much healthier light. Through the book it was as if Acuff was calling me out on some of my issues surrounding goals, but also affirming me in other areas I was doing good in, all while teaching me about the topic in a fresh way that helps me grasp the concept of goals better.

Every book I’ve read by Jon Acuff I’ve loved, and this one is no different! Highly recommend!

** Side note…if you listen to the audio version, he throws out bonus stories as he reads! That was neat!

[Nicole Brockwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic book for defining your goals and motivating you. I am a huge fan of Jon Acuff. I’ve read a ton of his books, listen to his podcast and we met several years back. Want the picture for proof? I’ll dm you. He’s fantastic. I love how his techniques apply to anyone and all goals no matter what they are or their size. The last few weeks I have felt lackluster in some of mine. Thinking - does this even matter? Is it even making a difference? So very Eeyore but after this book I feel a surge of motivation I wish could be bottled up! I am so encouraged now and feel refocused and reenergized. Some of this content I had heard before because I have read so many of his other books and do regularly listen to his podcast but the last few chapters about keeping a score card was pure gold! I’m definitely coming back to that!

Listened on Libby. Read by Jon himself who is hilarious and adds a little extra bonus here and there.

[Johnathan Nazarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book by my favorite author. Honestly, I really didn't have very high expectations for this one. Why? Because I feel like goals are talked about by everybody and I never see anything uniquely different in those discussions. However, Jon uses his humor, imagination, and wordsmithing to motivate me to look at goals in a completely new way - a fun way.

With fresh ideas, tons of practical advice, and charming wit and humor, Jon challenges the reader to reevaluate the power of a goal, how to properly set goals, and how to actually attain your goals.

Thanks Jon, for another great book. I'm glad your new goal is to write a book a year, because I could read at least three of yours a year.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 stars
This book was easy to read and I like that Jon teaches a combination of some old and new tactics to reach goals. It focusses on what works for you. Despite being a book to progress in life it, in between the lines, also tells you how to achieve happiness. The half-star redaction is for the sometimes a little bit repetitive sentences and the lack of mind-blowing 'new' insights (for me).
My key take-aways:
- Vision wall: it is difficult to predict the future, thus look at the past to find what you like
- Build up the goal: start with easy (max 7 days), then middle (30-90 days) and finally guaranteed goals (3-12 months).
- Test with easy goals what works for you and find whether you truly value the goal you've set
- Start in 15 minutes of 'stolen' time
- Find sustainable fuel (Impact, Craft, Community, Stories), chaos and fear only work temporarily
- Track your progress and compare to yourself; but change the scorecard if your life changes

[Jonathan Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Acuff’s writing is humble, honest, helpful, and humorous all in one. In his book, “All It Takes is a Goal”, Jon gives his readers an opportunity to discover their full potential. He starts with the “Best Moments List” which is all about discovering your life highlights. Based on this list, readers gain a better understanding of what motivates them to reach their goals and potential. Jon then helps his readers understand how to live in the potential zone, rather than the comfort or chaos zones. He does this by breaking down what he defines as easy, middle, and guaranteed goals. By sharing practical wisdom, research-based stats, and the encouragement of personalization, Jon creates a roadmap to guaranteeing your goals and fulfilling your potential.

Jon has a way of being super practical and giving you tools you can apply as soon as you set the book down. His ideas like the “Best Moments List”, the overview of how to build your goals based on your motivations, and his “Swiss-army knife actions” list idea, are all gamechangers for those who are looking to fulfill their potential.

If you’re ready for an honest conversation about goals, motivations, and discovering your potential, this book is for you!

[Madeline Ahles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened on audible read by the author himself. Your goals should start so small that they don’t impress anyone! It’s ok to give yourself a scorecard to rank your daily or weekly wins. If you’re looking to take a new lens on goal setting or evaluating goals break-down this was a good listen! Would listen again and with good audiobook only sneak bonuses! As a self development book queen looking forward to another book or his website materials.

[Earin Renfro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such great tips and ways to think about achieving goals

I absolutely loved all the tangible tips in All it Takes is a Goal. This was a nonfiction read for an online group that I am part of, and I am so glad the admin suggested it. I need to go back and read through my highlights and create my remarkable moments list and already have a few scorecards I use daily but am creating a new one for this season of life. If you have goals you are working toward, I highly recommend this Acuff book.

[Cherish]

I not only read this book, but I also listened to the audio while reading this book. I really enjoyed it, and I felt that the audio book was a podcast equivalent.

The chapters were very fun to read and listen to, and I am even more excited to check out more of Jon Acuff's books.

P.S: Check out his podcast of the same name it's pretty awesome, too.

[Jennifer P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really great read - so practical and helpful and full of good humor. Jon’s books always put into actionable words things we know that we should know and do, but we miss them in the day to day. I can absolutely make progress with the steps and tips in this book, and I plan to. Thanks once again Jon Acuff!