What Do You Want To Achieve? #personaldevelopment#lifecoaching

It does not matter what you want to achieve, because what you want to achieve will no longer look the same when you've achieved it.  

Setting and achieving goals is a transformative journey that reshapes both the objectives and the individuals pursuing them. As we chase our dreams, from material gains to personal milestones like writing a book, the end results often diverge significantly from our initial visions. This evolution in our goals is not merely a shift in achievement but a profound reflection of who we become along the way. It is essential, therefore, to consider not only the tangible outcomes we aim for but also the kind of person we aspire to be. This introductory perspective sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how personal values and mindful practices like gratitude can lead us to a fulfilling future, emphasizing personal development over mere accomplishments.

Let me explain.

We have ambitions, we set goals and if we follow our plans, our goals may be realised. However, the journey towards the goal, and the person you need to become in order to succeed is the real reward for your efforts.

(photo: Dave Ruck )

So you might want to achieve a material object, career ambition,, to 'write that book', or save for retirement.

Every objective will transform into a symbol of who you are when it is realised. Just as it will transform into a symbol of 'Who you are not', should you not achieve it.

Achieving goals often transforms them and us; what we originally desire may look different once attained. Goals, whether they're material, career-oriented, or personal growth milestones like writing a book, ultimately symbolize who we become in the process. For instance, creating a significant social media presence might not only bring fame and financial gains but also unexpected challenges like constant public attention and a relentless workload. Thus, it’s crucial to focus not just on what we want to achieve, but who we want to become. Reflecting on our values, practicing gratitude, and acknowledging our mortality can guide us toward a future where personal growth and learning provide the truest rewards, surpassing the material or external achievements we initially sought.

Say you set an objective to create a world-crushing social media presence. Say you achieve it.

Did you really fantasise about not being able to sit in a restaurant without autograph hunters badgering you?  Did you really have a clue about how much more intentional, and hard-bitten you would become as you arrived at your goal?

Did you realise that the financial rewards and celebrity would put you on a hamster-wheel, which if you opt to jump off of, will leave you crushed, despondent and wondering 'Where it all went wrong."

So let's reset our expectations, shall we? Instead of "What' you want to achieve, consider "Who' you want to be.

Small caveat here - no one can predict how this will turn out, however, you can stack the deck in your favour with a few simple re-sets:

Evaluate and state your values.

Set up a way to record gratitude.

Remember: You are mortal.

With these ideas in mind, I would suggest that you can design a future which, regardless of the bounty or scarcity of material things, your willingness to learn and expand your horizons will provide the greater reward than the objects you ideated.

When confronted with the questions: "What do you want to achieve?" first and foremost consider answering the questions: "Who do I want to be?"