The Unfulfilling Side of Success
Have you ever accomplished a goal that you have been working on for a long time, only to find yourself feeling empty and unfulfilled afterward? This can be a common experience, and it’s not just you. In fact, achieving big goals can sometimes lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. How can this be possible?
Our bodies are designed to reward us with dopamine as we start and complete our evolutionary goals. This dopamine rush helps us feel good and motivated to keep going. However, once we achieve our goal, that reward system shuts down, leaving us feeling lost and empty.
Introducing the I GOT This Framework and the Ideal
So, what is the answer to this challenge? It’s to identify a master goal that can never actually be achieved itself. This master goal is called the Ideal in the I GOT This framework. It is made up of seven value statements, each of which corresponds to one of our basic psychological needs.
By identifying these value statements and using them to order all of life’s other goals, we can find fulfillment and purpose that will never run out. Our core values, mission, and mantra represent different ways that we can use our value statements in the pursuit of our Ideal.
Aligning Goals with Your Ideal for True Fulfillment
As we deliberately practice goals aligned with our Ideal, we become more psychologically congruent, develop an increased sense of self-worth, increase motivation, manage our ego, and feel fulfilled, satisfied, and happy.
The key is to focus not just on achieving one big goal, but on living a life that is in alignment with our values and purpose. By doing so, we can find true fulfillment and meaning that will sustain us for a lifetime.
The Benefits of Living an Aligned Life Beyond Goal Achievement
When you shift your focus from solely goal achievement to living a life that is in alignment with your core values and purpose, you’ll notice remarkable changes in your overall well-being. Not being dependent on goal achievement for happiness can be truly liberating, and here’s what you can expect when you embrace this aligned way of living:
Lasting fulfillment: While achieving goals might bring temporary satisfaction, living a life guided by your values and purpose offers a deeper sense of fulfillment that lasts far longer. You’ll find meaning in your everyday actions and feel content with your decisions.
Resilience during setbacks: Life is full of challenges and setbacks. However, when you’re grounded in your values and aligned with your purpose, you’ll find it easier to navigate difficult times. You’ll be able to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than as threats to your happiness.
Increased self-worth: Living a life aligned with your values naturally leads to an increased sense of self-worth. You’ll feel proud of your actions and choices, knowing that they reflect your true beliefs and aspirations.
Better stress management: When your actions and decisions are in harmony with your values, you’ll find it easier to manage stress. You’ll be less likely to feel overwhelmed or pulled in too many directions, as you’ll have a clear understanding of your priorities.
Greater happiness and inner peace: By focusing on living an aligned life, you’ll experience a greater sense of happiness and inner peace. Your life will be filled with purposeful actions, leading to a deeper sense of satisfaction and contentment.
Life Beyond Achieving Goals
Achieving goals is undoubtedly important, but it’s only one aspect of a fulfilling life. By identifying your Ideal and aligning your pursuits with your core values, you can find true satisfaction, happiness, and purpose that will sustain you for a lifetime. Start working with the I GOT This framework and create a life beyond just goal achievement, one that is filled with meaning and fulfillment.
