Having Goals Feeds Feelings of Happiness
Contentment Comes from Pursuing Motivating and Desirable Goals
May 20, 2009 Anthony Vultaggio
What is happiness? Where does it come from? Is it an elusive concept or a realistic goal? Understanding happiness on a personal level is the key to succeeding in its pursuit. Success and happiness are inextricably connected. Those who are happy are generally more successful. Those who are successful are generally happy. But not for the reason many think.
Understanding Happiness
Some claim that happiness is a fleeting thought triggered by a smile from a loved one, a kind word from a stranger, kudos from a boss. Those people tap this emotion in fleeting moments. Others claim that money, success and stature lead to happiness. Yet there are countless examples of celebrities, politicians and other wealthy people who are not happy.
Interestingly, happy people define happiness as a feeling that they are working towards the actualization of their goals. These people see the journey, not the destination, as the root of their happiness. As long as they are making progress toward their goal they are able to maintain a sense of happiness and contentment.
To take this a step further, happiness is directly linked to having goals. Without goals there is nothing to work toward. Without something to work toward, boredom sets in and gives way to dissatisfaction. Without a new goal, you get bored. Boredom leads to stress and misery. For example, planning a vacation is exciting. But toward the end of a vacation many people are bored to tears as they no longer have a goal.
Using Goals to Achieve Happiness
Operating with this definition of happiness is actually quite empowering. To live a happy life, simply set goals and work toward achieving them. Sounds simple ... But not really. The reality is that the goals must be desirable, attainable and motivating.
Setting Desirable Goals
In order to set desirable goals it is important to understand personal beliefs and drivers. Some believe money is evil. A money-based goal is not a motivating goal for these people. Some believe that time equals freedom. A goals that requires a huge time commitment would be difficult for these people to commit to and achieve. The first step to achieving happiness can be accomplished with introspection and personal evaluation. Make a list of potential goals, core beliefs and motivators. Cross off any goals that conflict with those core beliefs and motivators.
Prioritizing Goals
Eliminate conflicts by deciding which goals are possible in what time-frame. Set If one goal is to travel the world for six months this year and another goal to make more money this year than ever before, you might have problems.
Working to Achieve Goals and Enjoying the Process
Make plans toward each goal and get to work. Set milestones and celebrate achievement of those milestones. Progress feeds happiness and contentment and is worthy of celebration. Review goals daily and chart progress to feed the positive feelings. Focus on the steps to achieve each goal. Review these steps daily and enjoy the success.
The more progress you make toward your most desired goals, the happier and more successful your new year will be!
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