In this episode, we're diving deep into why traditional goal-setting methods fail so many of us—especially neurodivergent folks and anyone who doesn't fit the conventional mold. Zeph introduces their revolutionary SLIC method (Sustainable, Long-term, Iterative, Consistent) and shares why self-care isn't optional—it's strategic. But the real magic happens when we land on a beautiful reframe that might just change how you think about achievement forever.

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Episode Highlights:

• Why SMART goals create a restrictive binary that crushes creativity and exploration
• The semantic problems with SMART goal terminology that create confusion and ambiguity
• How "specific" goals create tunnel vision that blocks curiosity and the learning journey
• The SLIC Method: Sustainable, Long-term, Iterative, and Consistent goal-setting
• Why self-care isn't selfish—it's a strategic foundation for sustainable success
• How to reconnect with your body through micro-practices and energy tracking
• The role of grace and compassion when breaking free from binary thinking
• What "queering" business practices means and why it's for everyone
• The beautiful reframe from "goal setting" to "becoming"—asking "What am I becoming?"
• Why consistency means showing up as your needs allow, not the same way every day
• How traditional goal-setting often leads to self-abandonment and disconnection from the body

Key Concepts Explored:

• The binary nature of SMART goals and why they create a restrictive pass/fail mentality
• The SLIC Method as an alternative: Sustainable, Long-term, Iterative, and Consistent goal-setting
• Self-care as a radical act of rebellion against systems that devalue your worth
• "Queering" business practices to move beyond traditional binary frameworks
• The shift from "goal setting" to "becoming" as a more expansive approach to growth
• Body-based awareness and reconnecting with somatic needs during goal pursuit
• Why consistency means showing up according to your capacity, not rigid daily habits

Common Questions Answered:

• Why do SMART goals feel so restrictive and overwhelming?
• What makes the SLIC method different from traditional goal-setting?
• How do you start reconnecting with your body if you feel disconnected?
• What does "queering" goal setting actually mean?
• How do you define consistency without burning out?
• Why is self-care considered strategic rather than selfish?

Notable Quotes:

"SMART goals are very binary. You either succeed or you fail. And I'm not somebody who does the binary very well." - Zeph Williams [00:03:00]

"When I hear 'specific,' it feels like a narrowing down... You don't get to enjoy the journey and enjoying the view." - Zeph Williams [00:07:00]

"Self-care isn't selfish—it's strategic. When you take care of yourself, you are sending a gentle reminder that you matter and that your needs matter." - Zeph Williams [00:11:00]

"What if instead of goal setting, we focused on becoming? What are you becoming?" - Zeph Williams [00:32:00]

"There are just so many people who are brilliant... Sometimes it just feels like the world has just gotten to them and that light has gotten really dim." - Zeph Williams [00:28:00]

Chapters:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Why SMART Goals Need a Rethink

[00:01:30] Meet Zeph: From Career Coaching to SLIC Thinking

[00:04:00] What’s Wrong with SMART Goals? The Limits of Over-Specification

[00:07:30] Beyond Binary Thinking: The Problems with Measurable & Time-Bound

[00:10:00] SLIC Goals: A Kinder Framework for Growth and Learning

[00:13:00] How to Know You’re Making Progress (Without Hitting a Number)

[00:15:30] Clarity Without Rigidity: Why Language Matters in Goal-Setting

[00:18:00] Accountability vs. Shame: Rethinking How We “Check In”

[00:20:30] Zeph’s Coaching Practice: How SLIC Supports Real Transformation

[00:24:00] Choosing Goals That Align With Your Values and Energy

[00:27:00] When Goal-Setting Feels Like Self-Punishment

[00:29:30] The Long Game: Creating Systems That Evolve With You

[00:32:00] SLIC in Practice: Real Examples from Zeph’s Clients

[00:35:00] How to Get Started with SLIC Thinking

[00:38:00] Wrap-Up: Connect with Zeph and Learn More

Guest Information:

• Zephyr Williams is an anti-hustle business strategist showing radical business owners how to build breathe-easy businesses that make their brains happy and let their bodies breathe. With a background in criminal justice policy and prison abolition work, Zeph brings a unique perspective on dismantling harmful systems and creating space for everyone to thrive.

Connect with Zeph:

• Find Zeph on most social platforms as @its_mxzephy
• Most active on Threads
• Instagram for regular updates
• Current launch: Aligned as F*ck Biz Clinic

Sara’s Links and Resources:

• Buy Sara’s book: youareastrategist.com
• Get a copy of Sara’s latest freebie: The Connected Strategy Guide
• Join Sara's Email Newsletter: findrc.co/newsletter
• Email Sara: [email protected]
• Virtual OKR Consult: Start your personalized virtual OKR consult
• Thinkydoers Homepage: saralobkovich.com/thinkydoers-pod

Upcoming Events:

• Catch Sara at the World OKR Summit! She’ll be speaking this October 30–31: okrsummit.org

Find full show notes and the episode transcript via https://findrc.co/thinkydoers .

Mentioned in this episode:

Don't forget: Get your free No-BS OKRs Workbook or schedule a VIP Strategy Day!

Before I let you go, I just wanna remind you, you can pick up your copy of "You Are a Strategist: Use No-BS OKRs to Get Big Things Done" at https://youareastrategist.com, and you'll get that free PDF of the "No-BS OKRs Workbook" when you purchase direct.

Don't forget your free No-BS OKRs Workbook

Before I let you go, I just wanna remind you, you can pick up your copy of "You Are a Strategist: Use No-BS OKRs to Get Big Things Done" at https://youareastrategist.com, and you'll get that free PDF of the "No-BS OKRs Workbook" when you purchase direct.