“If you want to be happy,
set a goal that commands your thoughts,
liberates your energy, and inspires your hopes.”
– Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) American Industrialist & Philanthropist
Ever set a goal, lost your enthusiasm, and then abandoned it? Over 80% of us have done just that with our well-meaning New Year’s resolutions.
Goals don’t work. They merely describe the finish line. They don’t execute the actions much less tell us how to get there. And they can raise stress. Most people avoid them like a bad bargain, claim they’re no good at it, and decry them as a poor system.
Yet repeatedly, research shows that “succeeders” are goal setters. In fact, no matter the arena – athletics, work, school, relationships, personal development, business, the arts – goal setters are the super class of achievers. They’re the elite 10-20%.
Why do so many of us fail at something so useful? It’s all about method. Goal abandoners form goals, then try to “get motivated” to pursue them. Their goals are usually add-ons to busy lives or should fantasies of perfection. With that objective, any set back is a failure. And a reason to quit.
Succeeders, on the other hand, start in a happy place. They’re pumped first; then they form goals, plan a course of action, and pursue it. Just thinking about that trophy, achievement, or acquisition brings “go!” energy. In addition, succeeders set goals within a larger framework of personal growth. It’s a renewal journey, an upgrade of what they already have. Each step is part of a desirable process, a small victory that feels good. And problems? Those are opportunities that support the goal core of self-improvement.
Athletes are a great role model. Their goals prompt change. They know that doing what they’ve done in the past only gets more of what they’ve got. So, they add more practice sessions, new methods, and new coaches. All of these are satisfying. Win or lose, the journey is worth it.
Succeeders begin with happiness and happiness begets goals!
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