Beyond the Resolution: Why 2026 Demands a SOAR Mindset

(posted: January 1st, 2026)

Most of us spend our time solving problems, putting out fires, or trying to fix what isn’t working. The SOAR framework flips that thinking. It asks a different question: What becomes possible when we start from our strengths? This shift alone can change the trajectory of your year.

As we step into 2026, many of us are following the traditional executive ritual: reviewing last year’s performance, identifying the "gaps," and setting targets to fill them. For years, the SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) has been the default framework for this work.

While SWOT has its place, many excutives are noticing something important: an over-focus on "weaknesses" and "threats" often reinforces caution and incremental thinking, creating a culture of defense rather than a culture of innovation.

In my work with executives this past year, I’ve seen a common theme: The most impactful leaders are shifting from a "deficit" mindset to a "possibility" mindset.

Stop Fixing. Start SOARing.

While SWOT looks in the rearview mirror to see what needs fixing, I want to introduce you to a framework that looks through the windshield at where you are going: SOAR.

SOAR stands for Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, and Results.

Unlike traditional goal-setting, SOAR is rooted in Appreciative Inquiry. It different and more powerful questions:

• What is already working that we can build on?
• What opportunities are emerging if we pay attention?
• What do we care deeply about achieving?
• What results would tell us if we are on the right path?

For senior leaders, this shift is transformative. It moves the conversation from:

"How do we mitigate risk?"

to

"How do we leverage our unique strengths to create a future we actually want?"

This is why I often say SOAR is an executive's secret weapon, especially in years that demand clarity, focus, and courageous decision-making.

Why SOAR is the Executive’s Secret Weapon for 2026

• Generates Energy: Instead of draining your team by focusing on what they’re doing wrong, you focus on their "core competencies" and high-point experiences.
• Vision-Led: By prioritizing Aspirations, you ensure your daily goals are actually connected to your long-term legacy.
• Results-Oriented: We don't just dream, we define the Results; the tangible, measurable markers that prove we are winning.

Ready to Design Your Best Year Yet?

I want to help you move beyond standard resolutions and into high-impact strategic planning. I’ve put together a complimentary SOAR Worksheet designed specifically for leaders to use during their first strategic deep-dive of the year. Download your printable worksheet, here!

If you’d like to go deeper, either personally or with your team, I’d love to support you. Sometimes one conversation sparks the clarity that changes everything for the year ahead. Let's connect

• Have you used the SOAR framework? If so, what worked for you?
• What is your primary aspiration for 2026?
• Which of the SOAR exercises resonated the most for you and why?

Sign Up for our monthly newsletter and never miss another post.

Images licensed from 123RF