You get it – goals are important. They get you thinking, get you going, and hopefully, get you where you want to go. Try writing down 100 things you want to accomplish over the course of your life. It's harder than you might think. But by writing down 25 life goals in each of the following areas: personal, career, money, and relationships, you can keep your list focused and manageable. Remember that goals need to be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realistic and Timed.

These goals allow you to look at who you are and what you want to be. Your adventurous side can manifest itself as: "Go skydiving before I die," or "Visit every continent." They can also be shifts in attitude such as: "I want to be more present in each moment." Or they can be shifts in routine: "I want to maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising and eating right." Personal balance is the foundation for success in other areas of your life, so set 25 personal goals that bring you peace and clarity.

Do you want to start a business someday? Do you dream of becoming the top dog in your current corporation? Want to write for National Geographic? Your 25 career goals might revolve around finding a meaningful job, getting a promotion or creating ripples in the world with a personal cause. No goal is too extreme here as long as it is realistic for your talents and your motivation.

For these 25 goals, think of paying off those college or car loans. Do you want to buy a house soon? Retire at 40? Have six months of living expenses in your savings account? Start a savings account? Money's tight, but when you have a good plan, it stretches like a rubber band.

All of your other goals affect this area of your life—and vice-versa. These 25 goals can encompass both mental and physical shifts in your relationships with others: not only how soon you might like to start a family or get married, but also how you will act in those roles. What traditions do you hope to carry on with your friends or your family? What kind of partner do you want? What kind of co-worker do you want to be?

Continue to challenge and fulfill yourself by revisiting and redefining your goals based on your progress every now and then. Remember: You drive your own success—it's okay to break the speed limit every now and then.