It’s very easy to feel bombarded by other people’s achievements. Social media and professional networks are filled with success stories, promotions, and personal triumphs, which can make you question whether you’re doing enough. However, true fulfilment comes from setting achievable goals that are relevant and meaningful to you—not from comparing yourself to someone else’s journey.
The Pitfalls of Comparison
Comparison is natural, but it can be detrimental when it drives your ambitions. While it’s important to be inspired by others, basing your goals solely on what someone else has accomplished often leads to feelings of inadequacy, stress, or dissatisfaction. Everyone’s path is unique, shaped by their background, experiences, strengths, and even failures. What works for someone else may not be realistic or suitable for you.
Consider the idea of professional success. For one person, it might mean climbing the corporate ladder quickly, while for another, it could be achieving a balanced work-life schedule. If the person prioritising work-life balance constantly measures themselves against a high-powered executive, they’re likely to feel unfulfilled. Achievements that don’t align with your values and vision will ultimately lack meaning and leave you questioning your purpose.
The Power of Personal Relevance
Setting goals that are relevant to you means grounding them in what matters most to your life and aspirations. Take the time to define success on your own terms. What are your passions, interests, and core values? What type of life do you envision for yourself in the next few years? By understanding your unique drivers, you can set goals that truly resonate with you.
For example, if you’re someone who values creativity, a goal to take a pottery class or start a personal writing project could be more meaningful than striving for a promotion that offers little room for creative thinking. If family is your top priority, your goals might centre on creating more quality time with loved ones, even if it means turning down a role that demands excessive overtime. Your goals should reflect who you are and who you want to become, not who you think you should be based on external expectations.
Setting Achievable Goals
To set goals that are truly relevant and attainable, consider using the SMART framework—making sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, instead of saying, “I want to get fit because everyone else is,” a SMART goal could be, “I will work out three times a week for 30 minutes to feel stronger and more energized.” This goal is achievable, personally meaningful, and focuses on your well-being rather than trying to match someone else’s fitness achievements.
Staying Focused on Your Own Path
Once you’ve set goals aligned with your vision, stay focused on your journey. This doesn’t mean you should ignore others’ success stories or stop learning from them. Instead, use them as a source of inspiration rather than comparison. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remember that everyone achieves milestones at their own pace.
It’s also helpful to periodically reassess your goals. As you grow and change, your priorities may shift. Be flexible and open to adapting your ambitions to fit your current reality. Achieving goals isn’t about perfection or keeping up with others; it’s about personal growth and making meaningful strides in the direction you choose.
Embrace Your Unique Journey
Setting achievable goals that are relevant to you is an act of self-respect and empowerment. It means acknowledging that your dreams are worthy and that your path doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. Embrace your individuality, trust your process, and remember that the most meaningful accomplishments are those that bring you closer to the life you truly want. By focusing on what matters to you, you’ll not only achieve more but also find greater satisfaction in your successes, big or small.
Remember, you’re running your own race. Make it count, and make it yours
