Ambitious, Driven and Hungry: Whose Goals Are You Chasing?

Robot WALL-E looking at another day passing by.

In our fast-paced world, ambition is praised as a key to success. Whether it's climbing the career ladder, starting a business, or following our passions — achieving "ambitious goals" is seen as the ultimate path to fulfillment.

But amidst this pursuit — unless you want to live like a mechanical robot —

it's crucial to ask: whose goals are you really chasing?

Society, family, friends — they all influence the goals we set. But are these aspirations truly ours, or are we merely following someone else's definition of success (= safety, stability, security, acceptance, [add yours]? ).

The bitter truth is many of us find ourselves caught up in the pursuit of goals that aren't truly ours.

We were made like that. As a sponge, we tend to soak up everything we implicitly see as secure and safe (because this is how our reptilian brain works), even if it's against our own good.

Alas!

Understanding the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic goals is key here.

Intrinsic goals come from within — they're rooted in our values and passions, bringing genuine fulfillment. Think pursuing a career aligned with our passions or nurturing meaningful relationships.

Extrinsic goals, on the other hand, are driven by external validation or societal expectations. While they may bring temporary satisfaction, they often leave us feeling empty.

Glamorous, but empty and cold inside.

Identifying whether we're pursuing intrinsic or extrinsic goals requires self-awareness. And honesty.

Courage.

It means questioning our motives and ensuring our goals align with our authentic selves, not societal norms, or external pressure (even if coming from our loved ones).

Achieving someone else's goals can lead to emptiness and burnout. But aligning with our intrinsic goals fosters purpose and inner peace.

So, how do we ensure we're chasing our own dreams?

Here are some steps:

Self-reflection.

Take alone time (1 h) to ponder your deep values and passions throughout your life. What truly matters to you?

Clarify your goals and possibilities now and in the future.

Define your short- and long-term goals based on your intrinsic values, not external expectations.

Challenge societal norms.

Dare to say "no". Embrace your uniqueness and carve your own path even when everyone and everything screams to your face you are being the odd one.

Seek support.

Surround yourself with those who support your journey and encourage personal growth. If your closest circle (family, partner, friends, colleagues) do not approve your needs and desires, well, I have nothing to say here. You know what to do.

Stay flexible.

Allow yourself to adapt and evolve as you grow. Do not try to always push the world to meet you where you are. See where you can take a step or two to meet the world in-between.

Purpose is closer than you think.

Ultimately, achieving our own goals requires understanding ourselves and defying external pressures. By aligning with our intrinsic values, over time, we can find our true fulfillment.

So, whose goals are you really chasing?

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Feeling the pull to dive deeper into your values and passions? It could finally be the time to start your journey of self-discovery alongside a guide who values authenticity and personal growth. As someone trained in unlocking hidden potential and uncovering talents, I warmly extend an invitation to explore the possibilities of working together. If you're curious about aligning your goals with your inner compass and navigating life with clarity and purpose, let's connect and see where this journey takes us together.

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