On Designing a Life You Feel Proud Of

by Margie DuBois, CPC

July 15, 2026

Most of us are moving so fast — chasing deadlines, showing up for others, and trying to make the days count.

We try our best to make plans and build happy memories, but resort to checklists and accomplishments. We end up feeling defeated and tell ourselves the story that we aren’t doing “enough.”

My take? We actually are doing enough, but we might not be doing enough of what matters. We’re working harder — instead of smarter — when it comes to designing our happiest life.

Recently, I came across a framework sharing a three-part approach to planning the year - it got me excited. Different from most guidance I hear, the framework was realistic, fun, and cost-free. The goal? To look back at every year with happiness, knowing you are living a truly abundant life.

Since I’m a pragmatic coach (and we’re already past the halfway point of the year), I’m offering you a revised version of the concept. I’m calling it the 1-4-2 Method.

If you’re interested in living your biggest and boldest life but haven’t figured out a system that works for you, join me in giving this one a try.

Designing Your Life with the 1-4-2 Method

Step 1: Identify one big achievement you want to accomplish during the year

This should be one more notable accomplishment that you will feel really proud of having accomplished at the end of the year. It could be something more cliché like summiting a mountain, completing a certification, or remodeling your kitchen. Or it could be something deceptively simple that feels like a big step for you.

Whatever it is, here’s the most important part: you will feel really happy that you did that thing. No one else gets to decide how big (or small) your “one thing” is.

Not sure where to start? Set a timer for 15 minutes and craft a work and life bucket list. Write down any ideas of things you might want to accomplish during your lifetime. Keep on writing until you run out of ideas, and then narrow down one thing that feels the most relevant for this year (nope, it’s not too late).

Step 2: Identify four happy memories that you want to create this year

This could be an art project, a game night at home, or a train ride with a friend. Anything that will require some intentionality to plan and is guaranteed to give you a boost.

Jot down a list of ideas for adventures you’d like to go on this or next year. Once you’re done, narrow down to four memories and assign one to each quarter. Then start your planning.

Step 3: Identify two healthy habits that you want to practice and maintain on a weekly basis

Healthy habits are key to maximizing performance. But a lot of guidance borders on obsessive. We hear things like: “meditate for 30 minutes every day,” or “drink a green smoothie every morning.”

While those habits might be beneficial, they are not feasible or a good fit for every person. In Atomic Habits, author James Clear writes: “When determining the size or complexity of a new habit ask yourself, ‘What can I stick to—even on my worst day?’” (Source).

Carve out some time thinking about small yet realistic habits that would bring you peace or positive energy. Narrow down your list to the two habits that you feel are the most important to implement now.

Practice one habit for at least three months, and once you’ve mastered it, layer on the second habit.

. . .

You don’t need to do everything to feel proud of your life. You just need to do the things that matter — to you.

Part of doing things that matter is slowing down to identify what matters to you the most. Give the 1-4-2 Method a try, and see what you learn.

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Mary Oliver