What are common goal setting obstacles for mid and late career stages?

2 Fear of failure

Another common obstacle to goal setting is fear of failure. You may avoid setting challenging or ambitious goals because you are afraid of not meeting them, facing criticism, or losing confidence. This can limit your growth, potential, and satisfaction. To overcome this obstacle, you need to embrace failure as a learning opportunity, not a personal flaw. You also need to adopt a growth mindset, which means that you believe that you can improve your skills and abilities through effort and feedback. You also need to celebrate your progress and achievements, no matter how small or big.

3 Lack of motivation

A third common obstacle to goal setting is lack of motivation. You may lose interest, enthusiasm, or passion for your goals over time, especially if they are long-term, complex, or difficult. This can lead to boredom, distraction, or resignation. To overcome this obstacle, you need to reconnect with your purpose and vision, and remind yourself of the benefits and rewards of achieving your goals. You also need to break down your goals into smaller and manageable sub-goals, and track and review your performance regularly. You also need to seek support and accountability from others who share or support your goals.

4 Resistance to change

A fourth common obstacle to goal setting is resistance to change. You may cling to your comfort zone, habits, or routines, and avoid taking risks or trying new things. This can prevent you from adapting to changing circumstances, opportunities, or challenges. To overcome this obstacle, you need to embrace change as a positive and inevitable part of your career development. You also need to identify and overcome your limiting beliefs, assumptions, or biases that may hold you back from pursuing your goals. You also need to cultivate curiosity and creativity, and experiment with different approaches and methods.

5 Unrealistic expectations

A fifth common obstacle to goal setting is unrealistic expectations. You may set goals that are too high or too low, based on external factors, such as social pressure, comparison, or norms, rather than on your own needs, abilities, or preferences. This can lead to disappointment, frustration, or stress. To overcome this obstacle, you need to set goals that are realistic and attainable, but also challenging and inspiring. You also need to adjust your goals as you learn, grow, and change, and be flexible and resilient in the face of obstacles or setbacks. You also need to balance your goals with your other priorities and responsibilities, and avoid overcommitting or underdelivering.

Goal setting is a skill that can help you achieve your career aspirations, but it also requires you to overcome some common obstacles that may arise in your mid and late career stages. By applying these strategies and tools, you can set and achieve meaningful and satisfying goals that align with your values, interests, and strengths, and reflect your growth, potential, and legacy.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?