Orangeville, ON (James Doan) There are seven reasons why you need to have goals.

  1. To give direction to life
  2. To make sure we are the one choosing the direction of our life — not others, not fate, not the media, etc.
  3. To motivate
  4. To make sure we get what we want from life
  5. To save time
  6. To reduce stress
  7. To give a sense of accomplishment

It could be fun to live without direction in the short-term. In the long-term we all need a purpose and direction. Goals give a sense of direction and purpose to life.

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 achieve fulfillment more often by following our own path and pursuing our own goals.

Goals give our lives direction. They also provide the motivation to get us through difficult times and choices. Going to college at night while working full-time may be difficult in the short-term. In the long run being able to pursue the professional goals we desire will make it worthwhile.

Goals also serve as the destination for what we want out of life. Some people measure goals in money or material goods. Others measure them in time or freedom. Set goals that suit your unique perspective on life. You will be less likely to become sidetracked by life and others.

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

Goals also reduce stress. Using your goals to focus your life and choices makes it easier to make those choices. Should you take that new position at work? How does it match your goals?

Finally, goals give you a measurable sense of accomplishment. Every goal you achieve, every step you make toward that goal, can drive you to keep going. Each success powers you toward the next level of success.

Now go out and set your goals!