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With the turn of a new year, we are invited on a journey of new opportunities and experiences. Some of these moments grow us and challenge us in ways we may not have expected. Other moments offer moments of perspective and reflection on where we want to go and who we want to be in this next season of life.
For some, goals for 2026 might look like running a marathon or finally signing up for that class you’ve been thinking about for years. For those beginning their sobriety journey, goals often run deeper, such as finding meaning again, rediscovering purpose, and rebuilding connections with the people who matter most.
Sometimes these goals can be more challenging than we might have anticipated and require additional support from those who can guide us forward. For the New Year, we asked a few members of our leadership team what their word of the year means to them, for advice on setting and maintaining recovery goals, and for guidance on staying intentional throughout the year. Here is what they had to share:
Focusing on Progress, Rather Than Perfection, and Learning from Mistakes
Julie DeNofa, President of Positive Recovery Centers
“Staying on track isn’t about willpower; it’s about alignment and self-compassion. When I focus on values rather than just outcomes—when my goals reflect who I want to be, it’s easier to return to them even after motivation fades.
Progress matters more than perfection. Setbacks aren’t failures; they’re feedback. Responding with curiosity rather than self-criticism helps me build resilience and drive long-term change.
Small, consistent habits and supportive accountability also make a big difference. When goals include compassion, connection, and intention, they endure long after the ball drops in Times Square.
Instead of asking myself, “Am I sticking to my resolution?” I try to remember, “Is this choice supporting the person I am or am becoming?”
Daily Improvements and Reflections on Building Your Foundation
George Joseph, CEO of Positive Recovery Centers
“A new year is a time to refocus on what’s important to you. Make your goals your priority and learn to reduce the noise in your head that wants to keep you distracted. This is a great time to get sober and build your foundation.
The world is very chaotic now and can easily distract you from what you want in your life. It’s more important to show love than to foster division, and to support your spiritual growth.
Resolutions are great; however, making daily improvements is most important. Be sure to nurture your spiritual self, which will springboard your growth. The best resolutions I have ever learned were living one day at a time and sometimes one hour at a time.”
Being Intentional with Your Recovery Goals
Jamie Demeris, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Positive Recovery Centers
“My word for 2026 is Intentional. I choose presence over autopilot. It starts with my words. What I say to myself, and what I say out loud, sets my course. When I am intentional about what I say to myself and can break out of autopilot, my results will be better aligned with my vision.
In 2026, in both my work and my personal life, I am deliberate about how I use my time, energy, and language. I react less and choose more. I know that real change is created through small, intentional choices made consistently. This year, I speak on purpose and with purpose.”
On Accountability and Leaning into Hope
Dr. Jason ZW Powers, MD, Chief Marketing Officer at Positive Recovery Centers
“Hope is my word for 2026. While this construct speaks for itself, I intend to go against my pessimistic nature and see the glass as half-empty and half-full, choosing to focus on the half-full side both at work and in the rest of my life.
The one piece of advice I would give to someone making New Year’s resolutions is to have an accountability partner, with both of you signing a written pledge. This one act will significantly increase your likelihood of staying on track.”
Starting with Small, Daily Habits to Build Momentum
Paul Doherty, Chief Information and Technology Officer at Positive Recovery Centers
“My word for 2026 is Learn. With this, I will treat all adversity as a learning opportunity. That mindset shift is powerful for the process of actually growing.
When it comes to your goals this year, get good at perfecting the small starting step. Things like flossing one tooth every day or doing one pushup every day. Once you’ve achieved that, then you can build upon the next step of doing more.”
Need Additional Support with Your Recovery Goals for 2026? We are Here for You!
At Positive Recovery Centers, we know that every recovery journey is unique. Our treatment programs are designed to support you at every stage of the process, whether you’re just beginning or looking to strengthen your foundation. Let us help you turn your recovery goals into reality this year and set yourself up for success in 2026.
Contact us today by visiting our website to learn more about our services and which location might be right for you, or call 877-476-2743 to speak with a recovery advocate and discuss how we can partner with you on your path to lasting sobriety in the new year.
Here’s to letting 2026 be the best year of your life yet!