As 2026 approaches, career goal setting feels more complicated than ever. Between layoffs, AI disruption, shifting industries, and economic uncertainty, many professionals are wondering if traditional goal-setting even makes sense anymore.

In this bonus episode of Control Your Career, Julia Toothacre breaks down how to set realistic, grounded career goals for 2026 without relying on hype, hustle, or unrealistic predictions. Instead of focusing on outcomes you can't control, Julia explains how to shift your attention to goals rooted in skills, behavior, clarity, and adaptability.

This episode is designed to help you move into 2026 with confidence, not pressure.

You will learn how to:

• Understand why traditional goal setting often fails in uncertain markets

• Identify which career goals are actually within your control

• Set flexible goals that adapt as the market changes

• Focus on skills, visibility, and decision-making instead of titles

• Build career momentum without burning yourself out

👉 Subscribe to Control Your Career for practical strategies that help you stay grounded, relevant, and confident in your professional growth.

Explore all episodes: https://ridethetidecollective.com/podcast/ Connect with Julia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliakrussell/ Visit the website: https://ridethetidecollective.com Get your free career tools: https://ridethetidecollective.com/free/

Episode Blog Post: https://ridethetidecollective.com/2026/01/06/2026careergoals/