From Constriction to Creation: A New Perspective on Goal-Setting

I used to revel in setting personal and professional goals. They provided structure, thus helping me convert my ambitions into satisfying lists of tasks I could strike through. However, over time, this once-enjoyable process morphed into a rigid professional framework where everything had to be expressed in goal-oriented terms.

At work, supervisors insisted on framing our progress around measurable objectives, culminating in an annual evaluation that hinged on the very goals we had set. As someone driven by success, I gravitated toward easily achievable targets, thinking they would pave the way for consistent wins.

Yet, as an inherently ambitious person, I began to feel a creeping sense of stagnation. The drive for attainable goals also seeped into my personal life, leaving me bored and uninspired.

In this blog, I discuss the now typical goal-setting processes that inspired me to reimagine a new process I call CREA(A)TE.

The SMART Goals Trap

Undoubtedly, goals are essential—they guide us and provide direction. In pursuit of this clarity, many of us adopted the SMART goals framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The framework provides a practical approach that aids professional and personal development. It offers a clear path and the structure necessary for tracking progress.

However, after a while, I felt constricted by these parameters. The excitement of goal-setting faded as I became consumed by scratching lines off a list rather than pursuing goals that emerge from creative thinking. I sought goals that reflected my dreams.

Then I encountered the concept of FAST goals—Frequently discussed, Ambitious, Specific, and Transparent. The allure of setting bold, challenging goals reignited my enthusiasm. Yet, rather than energizing me, the pressure of lofty and expeditiously determined targets led to frustration when they felt just out of reach.

That is when I reconnected with my inner Recreational Therapist. I recognized that while ambition is vital, I needed to create goals that were results-driven while simultaneously making the journey enjoyable. I eventually adjusted my approach, balancing ambition with realistic steps and a sense of playfulness.

First, however, I took a step back and critique structured goal writing.

The Limitations of Structured Goal Writing

While effective in promoting clarity and accountability, structured goal writing can turn the creative and spontaneous aspects of goal-setting into a mechanized process.

As we feel compelled to conform to these structured formats, the excitement inherent in envisioning broad dreams and ambitions might diminish, limiting the personal development we set goals to achieve. This shift can stifle creativity and intrinsic motivation, as people may become overly focused on meeting predetermined criteria rather than exploring true interests and aspirations.

When goal writing becomes a chore rather than a path to self-discovery, the fun inherent in pursuing ambitions—including inspiration, imagination, and personal significance—can become overshadowed by formulaic routines.

The result? A process that feels less like an enjoyable journey and more like a rigid exercise, ultimately detracting from the fun and passion that once fueled ambitions.

A Fresh Look at Setting Goals: CREA(A)TE

The following is my first attempt at turning my ideas for goal-setting into an acronym. It might be unsubstantiated by research; however, it has injected some fun into my goal writing. Take from it, if anything, that resonates with you.

Envision, create, and believe in your universe, and the universe will form around you – Tony Hsieh

Creative

Experiment with various formats for crafting goals. Find a medium that sparks creativity and engagement. It could be a vision board, journal, or drawings. My inspiration often comes from the work of creative writers. I take quotes from their books and track them using the Notes app on my phone.

I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination - Jimmy Dean

Reflective

Continuously reflect and adjust your goals and assess your progress. Unlike other processes, you are not bound by what you originally wrote. Make changes as often as you feel needed.

Sometimes things do not work. Identify what is not working and consider what adjustments you might make. Adaptability ensures your goals remain relevant and aligned with your evolving vision and circumstances.

It's an up and down thing, the human goals because the human is always an explorer, an adventurist – Cesar Millan

Engaging

Engage in storytelling. Weave goals into a story that reflects your journey. Share your ambitions within a larger context of your life experiences and values. This approach creates deeper meaning and motivation as you see your goals as milestones in a significant personal story rather than just tasks to complete.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can begin it. Boldness has genius, magic, and power in it — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Aspiring

Allow yourself to dream big by focusing on a vision that inspires you. Move beyond just metrics and numbers. Instead, consider aspirations that feel exciting yet challenging. Brainstorm ideas that resonate with your passions and help keep your ambitions high while remaining achievable.

Things won are done; joy’s soul lies in the doing – William Shakespeare

Amusing

Incorporate humor and lightness into your goal-setting process. Rather than viewing goals as rigid or overly serious, embrace a playful spirit that makes the process enjoyable. Doing so helps you remain enthusiastic while maintaining high yet achievable ambitions.

Find your voice. Be authentic. Then dive in with purpose - Julie Foudy

Truthful

Align your goals with your core values. Being authentic means ensuring your goals genuinely resonate with you. This also means setting realistic and attainable goals while acknowledging and addressing potential challenges.

It’s harder to stay on top than it is to make the climb. Continue to seek new goals.”– Pat Summitt

Evolving

Embrace change and be open to evolving your process as you grow. The path to achieving Embrace change and be open to evolving your process as you grow. The path to achieving your goals may require alterations in strategy or mindset. Stay flexible, and do not hesitate to try different approaches if something is not working—this will help you stay aligned with your vision and keep your motivation high.

Key Takeaways

In the goal-setting process, you want to CREA(A)TE a framework that emphasizes creativity, reflection, engagement, aspiration, amusement, and evolution. Begin by exploring various creative formats to document your goals. Regularly reflect so you can make necessary adjustments. Weave your goals into a personal narrative, thus creating deeper meaning and motivation.

Aim high while incorporating humor and lightness to maintain enthusiasm, turning challenges into enjoyable experiences. Finally, stay open to evolving your methods, recognizing that growth may require you to adapt and change over time.