6 Reasons Goal Setting Is Important

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 purpose to life.

1. To put us in control of our lives

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 fulfillment following our own path and pursuing our own goals.

2. To motivate

While goals certainly give our lives direction, they also provide the motivation to get us through difficult times and choices. Perhaps going to college at night while working full-time may be stressful and difficult in the short-term, but in the long run being able to pursue the professional goals we desire will make it worthwhile.

3. To make sure we get what we want from life

Goals also serve as the destination for what we really want out of life. For some people, goals are measured in money or material goods, while for others goals are measured in time or freedom. If we do not have goals outlined that suit our unique perspective on life, it is easy to become sidetracked by life and others.

4. To save time

Goals can also help us save time. When our “To Do” list becomes too long and our calendar too full, then we can simply compare our goals to the list. What items help us achieve our goals? What items are necessary to our goals? Scratch off the rest as unimportant.

5. To reduce stress

Just as goals save time, they also reduce stress because using our goals to focus our life and choices makes it easier to make those choices. Should we take that new position at work? How does it match our goals?

6. To give a sense of accomplishment

Finally, goals give us a measurable sense of accomplishment. Every goal we achieve, in fact every step we make toward that goal, can give us a boost of energy and momentum to keep going. Each success powers us toward the next level of success.

Now go out and set your goals!

If you want a little help setting your goals an keeping them, my Free Goal Companion is just the right tool for you.  Grab it here:

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I am passionate about goals, because they keep me motivated, especially when times get hard. I often use them to get myself back on track and push through the hard times. When you’re to have someone come alongside you and help you with your goals, click this link and schedule a time for us to talk.

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