8 English Idioms For Talking About Your Goals
Hey everyone and happy New Year! As English learners, you might be setting fresh goals for the year ahead—like improving your English listening skills, expanding your English vocabulary, or becoming more confident in your English conversations. These goals can feel challenging, but having a few idioms in your toolkit will give you the language to express yourself and speak about your plans and intentions fluently.
Below, I’ve gathered some of my favourite English idioms about setting and achieving goals.
1. Go the extra mile
Definition: To put in more effort than is strictly required; to exceed expectations.
Example:
This year I’m aiming for a promotion, so I’m planning on going the extra mile by offering to mentor new team members.
When you go the extra mile, you prove to yourself and others that you’re dedicated and willing to do more than the bare minimum. It's a fantastic way to stand out in any setting.
2. Keep your eye on the prize
Definition: To stay focused on your main goal, regardless of distractions or challenges.
Example:
It’s easy to get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results, but just keep your eye on the prize—remember why you started in the first place!
Life tends to throw curveballs, especially when you’re juggling school, work, and personal projects. By keeping your eye on the prize, you remind yourself of the bigger picture and push through those tough moments.
3. Set the bar high
Definition: To establish a very high standard or goal that is challenging to achieve.
Example:
This year, I’ve decided to set the bar high by aiming for a leadership role in my department’s strategic project.
When you set the bar high, you’re pushing yourself to excel and refusing to settle for mediocrity. Sure, it might mean you have to work a little harder, but the accomplishment you’ll feel in the end is totally worth it.
4. Turn over a new leaf
Definition: To start behaving in a better or more responsible way; to make a fresh start.
Example:
After realising my work-life balance was affecting my relationship, I decided to turn over a new leaf and make sure I leave the office by 6pm every evening.
The New Year is practically synonymous with fresh starts—use this idiom when you’re ready to change your habits and commit to positive growth.
5. Take the bull by its horns
Definition: To face a difficult or risky situation boldly and take direct action to deal with it.
Example:
I’ve been putting off discussing my promotion with my supervisor, but I’ve decided it’s time to take the bull by its horns and schedule a meeting to present my achievements.
If there’s a challenge in front of you, sometimes the only way to move forward is to tackle it head-on. Procrastination can be tempting, but being proactive will save you a lot of stress later.
6. Set/ put your mind to something
Definition: To decide firmly that you will accomplish a particular goal and then put in the necessary effort to make it happen.
Example
If you set your mind to improving your public speaking skills, you can sign up for workshops and actively seek opportunities to give presentations.
Commitment is key. Once you fully dedicate yourself to a goal—whether it’s mastering a technical skill, completing a project, or learning advanced English grammar—you’ll be more likely to invest the energy and resources required for success.
7. Get in the right frame of mind
Definition: To adjust your thoughts and mood so that you can tackle a task or challenge more effectively.
Example:
My goal this year is to improve my English listening skills, so I’m looking for inspirational podcasts to get in the right frame of mind.
Sometimes the key to success lies in setting the stage mentally. If you’re feeling scattered or overwhelmed, taking a moment to find calm and focus can make all the difference in how productive you are.
8. Go the distance
Definition: To persist until you reach the end of a goal or task; to not give up halfway.
Example:
Training for a marathon is tough, but if you stay focused and keep putting in the miles, you can go the distance and cross that finish line.
When you go the distance, you’re demonstrating endurance and commitment. It’s about following through on your plans, even when you face obstacles or feel like quitting.
Do you want to develop your English conversation skills this year? Check out my printable PDF Conversation Cards - Goals and Ambitions Edition.
Please note this is a digital printable product and it has been created for adults.
Unlock the potential of meaningful dialogue and elevate your English proficiency with this set of 32 Conversation Cards about Goals and Ambitions. Tailored for adult intermediate to advanced learners, these cards are designed to delve into deeper discussions, enriching your language skills and boosting your confidence.