Are you tired of setting business goals that never seem to stick? As a creative entrepreneur, goal setting is essential for growth, but without a solid plan, those ambitions can easily fizzle out. In this guide, we’ll explore a step-by-step process to help artists set realistic, achievable business goals for the year ahead. (If you want the shortcut with all the tools ready to go, to get the most out of your annual planning, you will want to check out The Artist's Year)

Why Goal-Setting Matters for Artists

Setting goals isn’t just about dreaming big, it’s about creating a roadmap for success. Whether you want to boost your income, expand your portfolio, or grow your audience, setting structured goals helps you stay focused and motivated.

Common Struggles Artists Face with Goal-Setting:

• Overwhelmed by too many ideas
• Unsure of where to start
• Difficulty staying consistent throughout the year
• Setting goals that feel too vague or unrealistic

If this sounds familiar, don’t worry! Let’s break it down into a simple, actionable framework.

Step 1: Use SMART Goals to Stay Focused

One of the most effective ways to set goals you’ll actually achieve is by using the SMART goal method:

• Specific – Define exactly what you want to accomplish.

• Measurable – Set clear metrics to track progress.

• Achievable – Make sure the goal is realistic.

• Relevant – Align it with your long-term creative vision.

• Time-bound – Set a deadline to stay accountable.

Example of a SMART Goal for Artists:

❌ “I want to sell more art this year.”
✅ “I will sell 50 prints of my artwork on Etsy by December by running two seasonal promotions and improving my product descriptions.”

Step 2: Break Big Goals into Actionable Steps

Large goals can feel overwhelming. Instead of aiming for one huge milestone, break it down into small, manageable tasks.

Example: Goal - Earn $10K from Art Licensing

• Research 10 potential licensing partners (January)
• Create a licensing portfolio (February)
• Send pitches to 5 companies per month (March - June)
• Follow up and negotiate contracts (July - December)

By tackling your goal in phases, you make progress without feeling stuck.

Step 3: Track Your Progress & Adjust as Needed

Regularly reviewing your goals helps you stay on track. Set a reminder to check in monthly or quarterly to assess your progress.

Tracking Methods:

• Use a goal-tracking planner or spreadsheet
• Keep a visual progress board in your studio
• Schedule monthly “goal check-in” sessions with an accountability partner

If something isn’t working, tweak your approach—flexibility is key to long-term success!

Step 4: Stay Motivated & Overcome Setbacks

Let’s be real—creative careers come with ups and downs. Some months, you’ll crush your goals. Other times, you might struggle. That’s normal!

Tips to Stay Motivated:

• Celebrate small wins along the way
• Surround yourself with a supportive creative community 
• Remember why you started your art business

Whenever you hit a roadblock, revisit your goals, refine your strategy, and keep moving forward.

Step 5: Plan for Success in the Year Ahead

Now that you know the framework, it’s time to take action. Grab a notebook or planner and write down three SMART goals for your art business this year.

Want the shortcut?

If you are reading this and are feeling the weight of the blank page/spreadsheet, I totally get that! May I introduce you to The Artist's Year. It is what I used when I decided it was time to actually take annual planning seriously, and when I really started to see results from those plans. 

"The Artist's Year" will guide you through how to:

• Craft a vision board that resonates with your busy life.

• Master SMART goal-setting that fits your hectic days.

• Embrace planning techniques that turn every minute into progress.

• Plan effectively, balancing creativity with practicality.

• Overcome creative blocks and emotional hurdles.

And for overcoming staring at a blank sheet not knowing where or how to begin...

You also get a Beautifully Designed PDF Workbook: A carefully crafted guide, full of practical exercises and planning tools, designed to fit into your busy schedule.

You go through The Artist's Year on your own time, at your own pace. There aren't any live calls to jump on, you can plan when your life allows. You receive lifetime access to the content of the course, which honestly is priceless! 

So, if you want the tools handed to you ready to go, along with guided pre-recorded videos to help you plan your most efficient year to date, click here to check out The Artist's Year!