Margaret Mugo

Are Your Goals Personal To You, or Are They Influenced by Others? We are all unique, each in our own way. We differ in perceptions, values, interests, and so on. As you grow old, you realize there are some things you can never compromise on. It is also true that you lose happiness if some things are taken away from you. So, what does this tell us?   As the new year approaches, avoid creating goals solely to please others. Unless you are personally interested in what you are working on, you will not be motivated to follow through with your plan. Setting goals you don't care about is the easiest way to fail.     Individual Goals vs. Societal Pressure     Sometimes, we unconsciously set goals based on what other people want. Nevertheless, if you hold firm to your life principles, nothing like this can happen to you. A goal's true purpose can be judged by its level of happiness and fulfillment. If you are pressured by society, chances are you will not take adequate steps to achieve your objectives. Your ambitions must align with your values; otherwise, they are for someone else. You will not struggle to actualize them if they are crucial to you.       Dangers of Setting Goals to Please Others     Did you know you can unwittingly decide what you want to accomplish? Because everyone tells you to go for it, you believe it’s good for you. Or, it could be that you have a people-pleasing behavior. However, goals set for others' approval don't work. Here is what happens if you try to meet other people’s expectations rather than follow your pursuits.   Procrastination and lack of motivation Self-neglect Losing yourself (your values, dignity, and personality) Your worth depends on how others perceive you Over time, you may develop passive aggression and resentment   Have you recently set goals you find hard to work on? Maybe they are not yours. It’s time you put yourself first and cross-check your values with your objectives in life.