Tuesday 28 June 2011

Don't Set Goals

The human race is a complex conundrum. However, as with any other complicated problem, when broken down into smaller segments one can find simple sequences which compose the seemingly unpredictable nature of our own kind. An example of such a sequence is the concept of failure. When given an assignment, task, operation, mission, etc, many create a standard of how they wish to perform, conduct, schedule, operate, or whatever on said assignment, task, operation, mission, etc. People normally set incredibly high goals, so when they fall short of these standards many will unconsciously begin to doubt their potential, even if the products of their labour are more than substantial. This is the fault of goal setting; it is a win/fail scenario. The only options are accomplish your goal or not accomplish your goal, a failure no matter how close a person may be to succeeding. The alternative? Creating possibilities. Possibilities are a win/win scenario: one can explore all aspects of a single option without labeling a result as a failure. With possibilities there are no borders, limits, or restrictions. A possibility cannot be failed, only achieved. For example, one believed it was a possibility to become an English major but found her strengths were in science. She did not fail as an English major but sought after a possibility less suited for her, and if her dream was to become an English major she still had possibilities to achieve it through the possibilities offered through the internet, tutoring, and many other options. Possibilities can convey strengths, areas with needed improvement, and unleash potential. Don’t set goals. List possibilities.