Goal-Oriented versus Outcome-Dependent

“When I’m done with school I’ll have more fun.”
“When I’ve finally paid off my debt I’ll go on that cool trip.”
“After this project ships, I’ll spend more time on my hobbies.”
“I won’t be happy until I get this one final thing done.”

It’s that time of year when everyone is making resolutions. Have you ever caught yourself uttering the above phrases? You are definitely not alone.

There is a very subtle difference between being goal-oriented versus being outcome-dependent.

Being goal-oriented is one of the best traits a person can have.

If you aren’t working on the goals that you have set for your life, then you are probably working on someone else’s goals. Your boss has goals for you. The mass media marketing machine has goals for you. Your parents have goals for you. Your friends have goals for you. Everyone that you have direct or indirect contact with has something in mind that they want you to do for them. This isn’t innately bad as long as their goals are congruent with your goals.

Being outcome-dependent is one of the worst traits a person can have.

The subtle difference with being outcome-dependent is that you don’t choose to be happy until you have achieved your goals. This is a terrible way to live life because the future never arrives! Once you have achieved your goals there will be other challenges in your life and new goals to achieve. You will find yourself in a gerbil wheel.

The point of goals is to guide you to make good decisions in the present moment.