1. To give direction to life
2. To make sure we are the ones choosing the direction of our life — not others, not fate, not the media, etc.
3. To motivate
4. To make sure we get what we want from life
5. To save time
6. To reduce stress
7. To give a sense of accomplishment
While it can be fun to live without direction in the short term, in the long-term human beings are wired to need a purpose and direction. Goals give a sense of direction and meaning to life.
It is often easy to let others set our direction for us. We take a job because family or friends point us in that direction, and then we follow the dictates of our bosses. We move in other directions because popular culture or the media tells us to do so. The simple truth is that if we do not set our own goals, then we will find it too easy to follow a path set by others. This can lead to stress and unhappiness. We have a greater chance of happiness and fulfilment following our way and pursuing our own goals.
While goals certainly give our lives direction, they motivate us to get through difficult times and choices. Perhaps going to college at night while working full-time may be stressful and complicated in the short term, but in the long run, being able to pursue the professional goals we desire will make it worthwhile.
Goals also serve as the destination for what we want out of life. For some people, goals are measured in money or material goods, while for others, dreams are measured in time or freedom. If we do not have plans that suit our unique perspective on life, it is easy to become sidetracked by life and others.
Goals can also help save time. When your “To Do” list becomes too long and your calendar too full, you can compare your plans to the list. What items help you achieve your goal? What items are necessary for your destination? Scratch off the rest as unimportant.
Just as goals save time, they also reduce stress because using your goals to focus your life and choices makes it easier to make those choices. Should you take that new position at work? How does it match your goals?
Finally, goals give you a measurable sense of accomplishment. Every dream you achieve and every step you take toward that goal can provide you with a boost of energy and momentum to keep going. Each success powers you toward the next level of success.
Now go out and set your goals!
