Into the Fire

Goals present a conundrum for me. If they're too high, failure is almost guaranteed. If they're too low, they present no challenge and perhaps no motivation because of their implied insignificance. Those who need goals to formulate motivation are often highly organized types, structured people, and/or those who enjoy the thought of school or taking classes. Planning a résumé for completing their goals inspires them.

It's logical to assume setting goals is a necessity for career people. Progressive analysis of what it takes to "succeed" mandates taking steps to insure it. However, sometimes perceived "right" steps waste time and energy and provide nothing but clutter on the march to achieving desired goals.

Writers will provide all kinds of goal-oriented people – and some not so much. Some of us write, watch, acquire information and formulate goals based on what we gather. Others of us write, watch, acquire information and decide what is valuable to us as individuals to pursue. These two approaches sound similar, but they're really different. At least from my perspective.

Some insist goals are a requirement. And it could be said goals are always necessary. In fact goals are inevitable. People can't just conduct their writing practices all willy-nilly without anchoring themselves to a formula for success – or at least achievement. And really it could be just semantics in defining "goal-oriented".

The only goal I can attest to making with serious intent is to grow closer to the Lord, to hear His voice plainly, and to do what He asks of me. That's my goal.

Father, you know my heart. I want what you want for me. In the flesh that's hard to say. In the spirit it's the truth. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.