Most people don’t set goals. In fact, it is said that less than three percent of people set goals, with everyone else relying on chance, luck and circumstance to get them to where they want to be.
Goals are the beacons that light the way towards our dreams. So if we aren’t consciously plotting the way, how will we know where we’re going or how to get there?
Setting goals is a powerful exercise that sets us up for success in all areas of our lives. Our goals motivate us and keep us focused on what we want to achieve.
Setting goals does come with its challenges, though. Often I hear people ask: “What are my goals, what should they be? How do I choose the right goals?” In our ever advancing society we are bombarded with so many choices, and we are constantly told by the media what our goals should be, be they related to our weight, our possessions, our careers, our partners, or any other areas of our lives. No wonder we’re sometimes left feeling overwhelmed and confused.
There are no right or wrong goals, but by far the most worthwhile goals are those that are in line with our purpose.
What is purpose? It is, quite simply, the reason we are here, our reason for being.
Here is a useful way of figuring out what your purpose is. Ask yourself these three questions:
• What do I love? This is the thing that you could do all day every day for the rest of your life.
• What is important to me? E.g. making a difference, children’s rights, the environment, your community.
• What am I good at?
A useful trick when asking yourself these questions is to listen to the answers that come from your heart as opposed to those that come from your head. This is because your heart is more authentic than your head; with your head you can often find reasons and explanations. Suspend rational thinking for a little while.
For me, I love new experiences. It is important for me to make a difference in the world. And I’m really good at connecting with people. So my purpose then is: to use my gift of easily connecting with people to embrace new experiences and to transform the lives of everyone that I touch.
All of my goals, whether they are related to my work, family, health, finances or any other area of my life, are aligned with this overall purpose. Anything that doesn’t fit with my purpose just simply doesn’t make it onto my goals list.
Purpose creates a context for your goals. It brings greater focus to your goals and eliminates the temptation to pursue activities that may derail you.
You will know when you are living your purpose because it will feel right. Again, your heart is your indicator. When your goals are purposeful, there is an ease that comes into your life as you pursue your goals. Note, I’m not saying that it’s easy – there’s still work to be done and action to be taken to achieve your goals. But you will no longer be faced with struggle and conflict. The actions that you need to take become obvious, and circumstances align to assist you in achieving your goals.
Give your goals purpose, and you will be amazed at the results that follow.
Si Ekin is an inspirational speaker, coach and facilitator. He is the founder of Ekin Coaching, which helps people to set and achieve their goals by taking courageous action. Si has been a trans-African cyclist, photo journalist and British Army Officer.