By: Matt Smith, Chairman of the Board, Greenheart International
Every January, conversations everywhere turn to New Year’s resolutions. While the tradition may feel familiar, the underlying question remains as important as ever: What do we want to accomplish this year? Just as critical, though often overlooked, is the follow-up question: How will we know we are making progress?
I am a firm believer that what we take the time to measure, we are far more likely to achieve. Clear goals without clear measures are aspirations; goals paired with thoughtful benchmarks become commitments. Measurement brings focus, accountability, and ultimately, momentum.
Although the calendar year has just begun, here at Greenheart we find ourselves already midway through our fiscal year. That timing offers a valuable perspective. We are actively and deliberately tracking our benchmarks right now, which includes reviewing progress, adjusting where needed, and working collaboratively across the organization to stay aligned with our priorities.
We are realistic about the fact that external forces will always exist. Economic shifts, global events, and circumstances beyond our control can, and sometimes will, impact outcomes. But we remain grounded in a simple principle: Meaningful progress comes from focusing our energy on what is within our control. When we stay disciplined about our goals, transparent about our performance, and united in our efforts, we give ourselves the best possible chance to deliver results that matter.
That same philosophy applies beyond the organization. Just as strategic objectives guide our collective work, personal goals help shape our individual growth. Whether it’s committing to better health, learning a new skill, or making time for something that brings joy, each of us has the ability to make positive change, which is often through small, consistent actions.
The key, once again, is clarity and measurement. Vague intentions are easy to abandon; specific, measurable commitments are far more powerful. Instead of saying, “I want to exercise more,” try defining when, how, and with whom. “I will walk for 30 minutes during my lunch break each weekday,” or “I will attend a cycling class every Wednesday with a friend.” Breaking goals into manageable and concrete steps removes the intimidation factor and replaces it with momentum.
There is a quiet but profound satisfaction in checking something off a list, whether it’s a personal resolution or an organizational milestone. That sense of progress fuels confidence, reinforces discipline, and reminds us that effort, applied consistently, leads to meaningful outcomes.
As we move through the year ahead, our 2026 guiding theme is simple but powerful: Purpose. Perseverance. Impact. Purpose keeps us grounded in why our work matters, as we are connecting people and planet to create global leaders through cultural exchange programs. Perseverance reminds us that progress is rarely linear. Impact challenges us to ensure that what we do truly makes a difference.
On behalf of the Board, I wish you a healthy, fulfilling, and prosperous year ahead … one defined not just by good intentions, but by measurable progress and lasting impact.
A graduate with honors from Connecticut College, Matt Smith has served as a Board Member on several of the leading industry associations including the Council on Standards in International Education Travel (CSIET), the Alliance for International Exchange, and the Coalition for American Public Diplomacy and Leadership. He currently serves as president of Educatius USA and joined the board of Greenheart in 2023.