Nature knows no goals
Ten goals I won’t keep all? No thanks
So, here it is, the New Year. How are your resolutions going? What about your goals for 2024? I don’t know about you, but goals only work halfway for me. What brings about real change in my life is moving in a direction. I prefer working on habits rather than goals.
Because life doesn’t go straight. It can’t be completely planned. Rivers flow in loops to the sea. When we set off for a goal on the map, we never know what awaits us beyond the next bend in the river. Perhaps wild locals who don’t like strangers are lurking there. Maybe friends are unexpectedly throwing a party or, God forbid, enchanting sirens are flattering you with their song, and you lose complete control. All experienced, metaphorically speaking.
Values and Habits
That’s why I prefer working on my habits and values that I connect with my personality. For example: I decide to be someone who regularly goes to the gym. Instead of setting the goal to appear there twice a week, I prefer slowly adopting a realistic routine that I can easily integrate into my daily life and that aligns well with the direction I’m heading.
Another example: I decide to surround myself only with honest people. Instead of forcing old relationships with brute force, I prefer gradually aligning myself with people whom I am sure mean well and are sincere.
When does the journey continue?
“Sure, Frank, but what about your journey?” you might ask. I can give you the answer at the end of January. I am currently working on the following questions for 2024:
1. What is important and right for me? What MUST be there for me to be happy?
I already know quite a bit, but it’s not finalized yet. I can say this much: The journey continues.
2. What would be cool if it were there?
The “Nice to have” things. It would be nice if they were there, but it’s also not a problem if they’re not.
3. What MUST go? What doesn’t fit with me and my values?
Oh, the things, structures, people, and habits I’m definitely parting ways with. I already know pretty well.
4. What can disappear?
These are the annoying things that don’t have to go away but would be nice if they did.
5. What sustains me in my life, and what do I believe in?
Well, I’ve lost sight of that in the past months. It’s been a long time since I prayed. Personally, it makes a huge difference for me. Because I’ve repeatedly experienced in my life: When I start praying again, I feel better, and the chaos I’ve caused in the meantime starts to miraculously sort itself out. The right people suddenly (re)appear. Doors open. And most importantly: Peace and the feeling of security return within.
These questions help me navigate significantly instead of pressuring myself with goals. Give it a try. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Here’s to a fantastic year 2024!
