Goal-Setting Doesn’t Work. Here’s What Does.

Goal-Setting Doesn’t Work. Here’s What Does.

In today's society, we are often encouraged to set goals and strive for success. We are told that if we work hard enough and set our sights on a specific target, we will achieve greatness. However, this obsession with goal setting may be misguided and even counterproductive. Instead of focusing solely on how to achieve our goals, we should spend more time understanding the systems of desire that shape our goals in the first place.

Every goal is embedded within a system of desire. We can't simply want something that is outside the system we occupy. This is where the concept of mimetic desire comes into play. Mimetic desire is the phenomenon of wanting what other people want because they want it. It is the unconscious imitation of the desires of those around us or those who came before us.

For example, in the education system, students often lose sight of the final purpose of their education. They are influenced by what others desire or have desired in the past. Similarly, the world of technology startups is heavily influenced by venture capitalists who demand quick-hitting investments. And on social media platforms, we constantly imitate the desires of others, whether consciously or unconsciously.

To free ourselves from the systems of desire that shape us, we need to step back and see them for what they truly are. We must recognize that our most pressing problems are problems of desire. We can't want something that we've never seen or heard of unless we expand our horizons and stop believing that our universe of desire ends at our current circumstances.

So, how do we break free from these systems of desire and find a better path forward? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Map out your systems of desire: Take the time to understand the systems that influence your desires. Reflect on where your goals come from and whether they align with your true values and aspirations. By gaining clarity on the systems that shape your desires, you can make more intentional choices about the goals you set for yourself.

2. Dare to look in different directions: Challenge the status quo and explore new possibilities. Don't be confined by the desires of others or the limitations of your current system. Seek out diverse perspectives and experiences that can expand your understanding of what is possible. By daring to look in different directions, you may discover goals that truly resonate with your authentic self.

3. Fall in love with a better version of the future: Instead of settling for the desires of the present, envision a future that is more aligned with your values and aspirations. Allow yourself to dream big and imagine the possibilities. By falling in love with a better version of the future, you can inspire yourself to take action and make choices that lead you towards your true goals.

In conclusion, the obsession with goal setting may not be the most effective approach to achieving success. Instead, we should focus on understanding the systems of desire that shape our goals and aspirations. By mapping out these systems, daring to look in different directions, and falling in love with a better version of the future, we can break free from the limitations of socially derived goals and strive for a more fulfilling and authentic life.