Why Bother Setting Goals?
The pessimist in each of us will say that setting goals are a waste of time because you and others rarely accomplish the goals they set.
So if goals rarely get accomplished, why bother setting any?
It’s true that if you set a goal, you might not achieve it, but it’s equally true that if you don’t set a goal, you are guaranteed to not achieve it.
I think we run into error when we view goal setting and achieving like a light switch, you either achieve it or you didn’t. But this view neglects the growth, fulfillment and progress that occurs as a result of trying to reach a goal.
Let’s say someone set a goal to run a marathon in 2022, but as the clock chimes midnight this coming New Years Eve, after running and trying, their best run was a half-marathon. Was setting the goal to run a marathon pointless?
Such a person will be healthier, stronger, and more fulfilled. It’s true they didn’t achieve the goal, but they made great progress in the pursuit.
Some people say that we should lower our goals, or even suggest we be more ‘realistic’. But here’s another truth, if you aim high and miss the target, you’re still growing and progressing which is what makes life fulfilling. Aim low and miss and you achieve nothing, which is the definition of unfulfilling.
Low goals. Drab visions. These will never motivate us to get up and go. It’s as we dream big that we become excited enough to start!
So here’s my advice for 2022, dream big, aim high, and set goals that will get you there. Set goals, and dream dreams that excite you, inspire you and motivate you!
Then start working toward them. You might not realize your dream or achieve your goal this year, but you’ll be closer, happier, and more successful when the New Year comes again.
Progress equals fulfillment.
Here’s to great year!
Matthew Royston