Goals – Orient for Happiness

The research on the importance of setting goals is quite startling! One might think that the purpose of setting goals is all about the success of reaching them. However, studies show that the true benefit of setting goals, both for our success and our happiness, is not their achievement, but instead is the direction they provide. Once we set a goal, we gain confidence that we are heading in a specific direction and can concentrate on the present task and worry less about the future. It provides focus and reduces stress. Psychology Professor David Watson notes that the process of striving after goals, rather than attainment of goals is crucial for happiness. I guess the saying is true, “Focus on the journey, not the destination.”