Me vs. Me: Staying Disciplined with Your 3rd Quarter Goals.

Me vs. Me: Conquering the 3rd Quarter Without Self-Sabotage

As we move deeper into the 3rd quarter, this season is all about clarity, focus, and consistency. At Allison Evans Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, we believe growth doesn’t just happen in therapy rooms — it happens in every part of our lives: business, finances, relationships, and mindset.

The difference between where you are and where you want to be isn’t motivation — it’s discipline. And discipline begins with the decision to stop standing in your own way. This quarter is about “Me vs. Me” — focusing less on external competition and more on self-mastery.

Let’s talk about how to stay committed, purposeful, and financially wise as we close out 2025 strong and start preparing for 2026.

1. Budgeting With Intention: Knowing Where Every Dollar Goes

If you want your business (and personal life) to thrive, clarity in your finances is non-negotiable. Take time this quarter to audit your budget — not just your business expenses, but your spending habits.

• Are your investments aligning with your long-term goals?

• Are there subscriptions, tools, or memberships that no longer serve you?

• Are you budgeting for professional growth, self-care, and rest?

Creating a monthly business spending tracker helps you stay accountable. Remember: budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about creating room for freedom and opportunity.

2. Building Your Savings & Strengthening Your Safety Net

We can’t pour from an empty cup, and that includes our financial one. Create or revisit your savings goals with realistic monthly benchmarks. Even if it’s a small percentage of your income, automatic transfers to savings or a high-yield business account can help build long-term stability.

If you’re a private practitioner or entrepreneur, consider building an emergency business fund that covers 3–6 months of operating expenses. Financial peace breeds emotional peace — and that allows you to show up more fully for your clients and your purpose.

3. Attracting the Right Clients (Not Every Client)

This quarter, focus on alignment over volume. The right clients are those who align with your values, respect your expertise, and are committed to growth.
Ask yourself:

• Am I clear about who my ideal client is?

• Is my messaging aligned with the energy and service I want to attract?

• Am I maintaining healthy boundaries with clients who may not be a fit?

Remember, every “no” to the wrong opportunity creates space for a “yes” to the right one.

4. Start Your 2026 Goals Early — Plan While Others Pause

Don’t wait until January to start vision planning. The 3rd quarter is the perfect time to start laying the groundwork for your 2026 goals.

• Review what’s working in your current systems.

• Identify what drains your energy or profit margin.

• Create a 90-day plan that transitions smoothly into Q1 2026.

Whether that means launching a new service, hiring help, or refining your schedule — remember: preparation now prevents panic later.

5. Strengthening Your Financial Portfolio

Let this be the year you start treating your finances like a business, not a burden. Evaluate your investment strategies — both personal and professional. Explore expanding your financial portfolio to include diversified investments, retirement plans, or long-term growth options.

If you haven’t already, talk with a financial advisor about Index Universal Life (IUL) insurance plans. IULs can serve as both a life insurance policy and a tax-deferred investment vehicle for your future. By contributing consistently, you’re creating a financial legacy and peace of mind for yourself and your family.

Investing isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistency.

6. Setting Realistic, Aligned Goals (and Letting Go of Self-Sabotage)

When setting goals for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, make sure they’re specific, measurable, and emotionally meaningful.
Instead of vague resolutions like “I want to be more consistent,” try:

• “I will save $500 each month toward my business expansion fund.”

• “I will increase my client base by 10% with aligned marketing.”

• “I will block one weekend each month for rest and reflection.”

Self-sabotage often shows up as procrastination, perfectionism, or fear of success. The key is awareness. When you feel resistance, ask yourself: “Am I protecting my peace or avoiding my potential?”

7. The “Me vs. Me” Mindset: Your Only Competition Is Yesterday’s You

Your progress this quarter isn’t about comparison — it’s about elevation.

• Show up for yourself like you would for your best client.

• Keep promises to yourself, even when motivation fades.

• Celebrate small wins; they add up to lasting transformation.

When you approach your business and life with self-discipline, compassion, and clarity, you stop fighting the world — and start building one that fits you.

Final Thoughts:

The third quarter is a mirror — it reflects how disciplined, focused, and honest we’ve been with ourselves. There’s no competition, no comparison — just you vs. you.

At Allison Evans Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, we’re not just talking about emotional growth — we’re modeling it through financial stewardship, accountability, and authenticity.

Your 2025 is still in motion. Your 2026 starts now.

Let’s finish strong, with clarity, courage, and purpose. 💼✨