
Image credit: drogatnev
This week, I have a question for you instead of my usual advice or tips…
Do you believe in the power of setting huge, audacious goals? Or do you think it’s better to be goal-free, staying present and embracing what’s here and now?
You see, I’ve been reflecting a lot on goals lately; after all, it’s a new year, and that's what you're supposed to do, right?
I’ve talked a lot about setting big goals, overcoming those persistent “yes, buts,” and how saying “yes, and” to your goals can be a game-changer. In fact, in my latest podcast episode, I dive into the concept of saying “yes, and” to impossible goals — the kind of goals that seem beyond reach, but ignite creativity and engagement as you try anyway.
I do set these kinds of ambitious goals for myself. Some I’ve achieved, many I’ve failed or let go of, and some are still very much “in process” (and have been for a while).
Does that sound familiar?
Recently, though, I’ve been reading a few books that challenge the whole idea of setting big goals. They advocate for the power of not having goals at all. Instead, they emphasize being present, letting go, and finding contentment in the here and now, rather than constantly striving for something we don’t yet have.
Some of the books that have got me thinking differently include:
- Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
- The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking also by Oliver Burkeman
- Goal-Free Living by Stephen Shapiro
- The Plan by Kendra Adachi
And I have to say… I agree with a lot of the concepts in these books. As an improviser, I deeply value the idea of being fully present and making the most of opportunities as they come up. But I can still see the immense power in setting bold, even impossible goals (which I talk about in my latest podcast episode).
But which approach is better?
Actually, I think there must be a happy middle ground where you can combine both processes—taking what resonates from goal-setting, while also embracing the present moment. But I’m still figuring out what that might look like..
In the meantime, I’d love for you to reach out to me here and let me know!
- Do you believe in the power of setting huge, audacious goals?
- Do you think it’s better to be goal-free - staying present and embracing what’s here and now?
- Have you maybe found another approach that works for you?
I’d really appreciate hearing your thoughts on this! Depending on the feedback, I may even compile your responses into a future podcast or article (let me know if you’re okay with me sharing your name or if you'd prefer to stay anonymous).