What if goal setting didn’t have to be overwhelming, rigid, or tied to January pressure? What if one word, one habit, or one honest conversation could change your entire year?

In the first Whinypaluza episode of 2026, Rebecca and Seth share how they really approach goals in real life. This conversation goes beyond resolutions and covers SMART goals without the intimidation factor, choosing a word of the year, prioritizing self-care for the person who usually takes care of everyone else, and setting relationship goals that rely on communication rather than mind-reading. From parenting to partnership to personal growth, this episode is about building momentum with less resistance and more flow.

Key Takeaways

→ Goals do not have to start in January, and they do not have to be big to matter.

→ Smart goals help turn dreams into action by being specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based.

→ Choosing a word of the year can guide daily decisions just as powerfully as a written goal.

→ Self-care includes scheduling your own appointments, not just everyone else’s.

→ Share your goals with your partner, especially when they affect them.

→ In relationships, the goal is not to win an argument. The goal is for both people to win together.

→ Less resistance creates more peace and forward movement.

Notable Moments

 - Rebecca explains why her word for 2026 is flow and how resisting life events creates unnecessary stress.

 - Seth introduces his goal to be profensive instead of defensive and what that looks like in real conversations.

 - A candid discussion about parenting, expectations, and choosing connection over control.

What’s Coming Next

This Friday’s episode features Max reflecting on his first semester of college and what he learned.

Listen to Whinypaluza wherever you get your podcasts.

Visit whinypaluza.com to sign up for the free email newsletter.

Join the Whinypaluza Moms Facebook group for support, connection, and monthly challenges.

Rate, review, and subscribe to help more parents find the show.