Means Goals vs. End Goals: What's Driving You?

“Let the means unfold on their own and focus on the end goals.” - Mindvalley

As 2024 wraps up, there lies a great opportunity to pause & reflect on the goals we have had and the ones we wish to have in the new year!

TODAY’S TOPIC

• Means Goals vs End Goals (The what)

• Why the distinction matters

• How to get clear on what you really want in life

WHAT

Far too often we think we are clear on our goals & what we should be doing next (means goals) that we lose sight of what we really want in our life (end goals).

Means goals are the steps or actions we take to achieve a larger objective. Think of them as the smaller milestones you need to hit along the way to reach your ultimate destination. e.g., if your end goal is to run a marathon, a means goal might be to run 10 kilometers each week in your training plan.

End goals represent the ultimate objectives or outcomes we want to achieve in life. They are the big picture targets that give purpose and direction to our actions.

Using the marathon example, the end goal would be to successfully complete the marathon.

WHY

While the means goals give us direction & motivation reassuring us that we are on the right path toward our ultimate goal, it’s the end goals that need to be aligned to what we really want in life.

3 reasons why having clarity on end goals is important:

1. Purpose & Vision:

   End goals provide a clear purpose and vision. They answer the "why" behind your actions and give you a meaningful direction to aim for.

   Knowing what you ultimately want to achieve can guide your decision-making and keep you focused on what truly matters.

2. Long-term motivation:

   End goals act as a powerful source of long-term motivation. When you're aware of the bigger picture and the ultimate outcome you desire, it can help you stay committed even when faced with challenges or setbacks.

3. Big picture thinking:

   Understanding end goals encourages big picture thinking. It helps you see beyond the immediate tasks and consider how each action fits into the broader context of your ultimate aspirations.

HOW

I am going to share a framework that I have used personally when navigating the recent (big!) career transition :)

It’s called the 3 MIQ (Most Important Questions) framework by Mindvalley. Created by Vishen Lakhiani, it is designed to help you generate clarity on what you truly want in life.

These questions are:

1. Experiences: What do you want to experience in life?

2. Growth: How do you want to grow & develop as a person in order to have the experiences listed in #1?

3. Contribution: For the person you are to become & the experiences you want to have, what to you want to contribute to the world?

These questions aim to help you uncover your deepest desires & align your goals with your true purpose.

By answering these questions, you can gain a clearer vision of your end goals & live amore fulfilling life!

See you in the new year. Happy holidays!

Jaspreet