A life devoid of a goal would seem like a flower devoid of its characteristic fragrance. Aspirations and goals form a mould for the man to cast his character and actions in, to actualize what he was made for and to give back to the symbiosis of nature and community from which he grew.
With the first month of the year halfway in, most of us would have indulged in an urgent self-inquiry, asking ourselves what we’d like to do continue this year and what new plans will see the light of the dawn. What must follow this introspection is a resolution, setting of a goal that directs your actions and mindset throughout the year.
In Bhagavad Gita, Shri Krishna mentions the three ingredients of an effective execution – knowledge, doer and the action itself (BG 18.26). Now that an intention and information is in place for what is to be done, it becomes pertinent to assume the role of a doer. How do you go about translating this intention into action? Shri Krishna answers, mere doing is not enough – rather, one needs to work with zeal (utsaah) and determination (dhriti). These equip one with a mental attitude where the least energies are dissipated while leading to the best results. The Vedic literature similarly expounds on this need of disciplined effort (tapas) while setting and pursuing goals, which are synonymous to austerities on life’s canvas. This does not merely lead to the tangible achievement of the goal, but also an inner evolution of the self, where one grows wiser and more resilient from their experiences of labor.
The story of Nachiketa from Katha Upanishad stands as an example of this. A young boy’s curiosity about the mystery of life and beyond leads him through various strenuous situations to the frightening god of death, Yama. Yet, he remains diligent and determined, seeking resolution to his questions.
How can one develop this virtue while setting and working on their goals? Firstly, it becomes necessary to ascertain that the goal you’ve chosen for yourself inspires a natural determination in you. If not, it may not be something you are intrinsically driven to do. It also becomes important to train one’s body and mind to put persistent efforts into this goal – by giving yourself regular reminders of what you’re working for, and the higher meaning the goal is a symbol of.
Lastly, a commitment to the upcoming goals must be balanced with a sense of non-attachment, of handing over the burdens and expectations of the outcomes to forces higher than us. There is nothing wrong with the act of pursuing goals relentlessly, however, it must be complemented by an awareness that one’s drive for their goal is fuelled by noble initiatives – rather than ego-driven desires that could lead to dissatisfaction and agony on not being fulfilled.
One exercise you can try to inculcate this awareness is, periodically sitting with yourself or recording in a journal to ponder upon the following:
– Why am I pursuing this goal?
– How do I want it to turn out?
– What will happen if it doesn’t turn out the way I wished to? How will it affect me?
Everytime you come back to it, revise your thoughts, expectations and awareness about the goal. Remind yourself that you can indeed accept and learn from outcomes that differ from your expectations, and they will, in all cases, lead to the growth of yourself, in some way or another.