Moving the Goal Posts: Emotional Goal Achievement Maturity
One common trait I've witnessed over my years of coaching high achievers is the tendency to feel a bit let down after creating success. There's often a propensity to immediately set a new goal to recapture that sense of achievement.
When we go after something big—whether it's running a half-marathon, getting that big promotion at work, or buying our first home—we often hold the false belief that we'll be so much happier once we cross the finish line, attain that new title, or move into that new home. Yes, achieving your goals will likely flood you with dopamine and pride, but if you haven't learned to enjoy the journey, you may find yourself disappointed by those fleeting feelings of success.
Enjoying the Process
So, how do we enjoy the process of achieving a goal when we're not constantly getting that dopamine hit from the achievement?
1. Embrace the Journey
It's crucial to savor each journey step, not just the destination. When you focus on enjoying the process, you'll find more fulfillment and satisfaction. This means taking the time to appreciate your efforts, learning experiences, and small victories.
2. Set Realistic Timelines
Being in a hurry to achieve your goals can lead to burnout. Instead, set realistic timelines that allow you to grow and develop at a sustainable pace. This approach reduces stress and helps you stay motivated and engaged.
3. Find Joy in Daily Activities
Incorporate activities that bring you joy into your daily routine. Whether it's a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking a moment to relax, these activities can help you maintain a positive outlook and prevent burnout.
4. Reflect on Your Progress
Regularly take time to reflect on how far you've come. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and acknowledge the hard work and dedication you've put in. This reflection can reinforce a positive mindset and keep you motivated.
Why Are You Achieving Goals?
Understanding the deeper reasons behind your goals is essential. Are you pursuing them for personal growth, to prove something to yourself, or to seek external validation? Clarifying your motivations can help you stay focused on what truly matters and enjoy the journey more fully.
Enjoying Your Worst Days
Ask yourself, "Do I enjoy my worst days of whatever I'm doing?" If the answer is yes, you're likely on the right path. Embracing the challenges and finding meaning even in difficult moments is a sign of true passion and commitment.
Who You Become in the Process
Remember, achieving a goal is not just about the end result—it's about who you become. The journey shapes you, builds your character, and helps you grow in ways you might not have anticipated. By focusing on personal growth and enjoying the process, you'll find that reaching your goals becomes even more rewarding.
Conclusion
Developing emotional goal achievement maturity means finding joy and fulfillment in the journey, not just the destination. By planning to enjoy the process, setting realistic timelines, finding daily joys, reflecting on your progress, and understanding your motivations, you can achieve your goals with a sense of satisfaction and happiness that lasts far beyond the initial dopamine hit.
