The 4 Reasons Why Other People Don't Set Goals

There have been numerous studies which have shown the value of goal setting in the achievement of success, yet it is estimated that only 3% of us have clear written goals. This article examines what prevents the majority of people from setting goals.

Why people do not set goals – 1. Lack of awareness

Firstly, it is evident that most people cannot realise the importance of goals. This is perhaps understandable if, for example, you grow up in an environment where no-one had goals, or you spend the bulk of your time with a group of friends where goals are neither discussed nor valued.

We will tend to learn from the books we read and the people we associate with. If you are not exposed to the principles of goal setting you may potentially go through life without ever realising how powerful they can be

Why people do not set goals – 2. Lack of Knowledge

The second reason that many people don’t set goals is because either they don’t know how or sometimes think they have them already, when in reality, they have a series of vague dreams or wishes like, “Be happy,” or “Make a lot of money.”

These however, are not goals at all but merely fantasies that are common to nearly everyone. In our definition, a goal is something distinctly different from a wish. It is clear, written and specific. It can be quickly and easily described to another person. You can measure it, and you know when you have achieved it, or not.

Why people do not set goals – 3. The Fear of Failure

The third reason that people don’t set goals is because of the fear of failure. Failure can be both emotionally and often financially painful. Often however, the fear of failure is even more distressing and debilitating than the failure itself.

Everyone has experienced failure at some time. Each occasion, they resolve to be more careful next time and avoid failing in the future. They then make the mistake of unconsciously sabotaging themselves by not setting any goals at which they might fail. They can end up going through life functioning at far lower levels may be truly possible for them.

If we stay within the ‘safe harbour of the known’ we will be protected from potential or actual failure, however we will also be condemning ourselves to small lives of frustration and wondering, what if.

Success and failure can be likened to a swinging pendulum. If the pendulum points straight down, in the neutral position we will most likely be protected from failure, but at the cost of not experiencing success. The further the pendulum is pushed to the failure side, the further it can swing back to success.

Why people do not set goals – 4. The Fear of Rejection

The fourth reason that people don’t set goals is because of the fear of rejection. People are afraid that if they set a goal and are not successful, others will criticize or ridicule them. This is one of the reasons why, when you begin to set goals, you should keep your goals a secret or only share with trusted supporters who will encourage you and, if necessary, keep you accountable.
Don’t tell just anyone. Let people see by your results and achievements what you have accomplished, but don’t tell them in advance. What they don’t know can’t hurt you.

By: DJ Britton

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To find out how using goal setting software can propel you towards success, you need to visit The Goals Workshop. Daniel Britton is an author, speaker and founder of the self improvement site ursuccess.net. Their twice monthly free self improvement newsletter is full of ideas and inspiration for living your best life