It's been years since I've set a goal. I've tried before. You know, the whole SMART goal thing - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. It just doesn't work for me. Goals are too restrictive for me. If I'm so single-minded in my focus I'll miss out on the rich and broad experiences of life. Besides, without goals, I've accomplished more than I could have hoped or imagined. Still, when I describe my philosophy about how I approach life I feel like I short change all the value I get. I have not articulated my approach well, and to date I describe my approach as getting in the boat and seeing where it takes me rather than directing the boat where I want it to go. Some argue that the boat may crest a waterfall. Well that sounds like an awesome adventure to me.
I'm reading two books at the moment. I don't generally advocate that as I've found I can get through one book more quickly if I don't divide my attention. But one of the books is mind-numbing and frustrating, so I need another outlet. More on that later (i.e. what book, why is it numbing and frustrating, and why would I continue reading it). The other is Rosamund and Benjamin Zander's The Art of Possibility. Needless to say it's invigorating. Additionally the Zanders have articulated for me what I've inherently known about myself.
You are more likely to be successful, overall, if you participate joyfully with projects and goals and do not think your life depends on achieving the mark because then you will be better able to connect to people all around you. On the whole, resources are likely to come to you in greater abundance when you are generous and inclusive and engage people in your passion for life. There aren't any guarantees, of course. When you are oriented to abundance, you care less about being in control, and you take more risks. You may give away short-term profits in pursuit of a bigger dream; you may take a long view without being able to predict the outcome. In the measurement world, you set a goal and strive for it [AE: in this context not a good thing]. In the universe of possibility, you set the context and let life unfold.
Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander
The Art of Possibility
Let life unfold. They don't teach you this stuff in school. The other book, well, it's about the scarcity mentality and dividing a limited pie. Nothing inspiring there, but sometimes you just gotta understand the other side.