Intention vs Goals

Goals are targets in our lives with definite, finite outcomes. We set goals so we have something to work towards; however, goals can backfire, as after achieving them, we can feel empty, not knowing what to work towards next.

This is why, although it is good to have goals, more importantly, there should be a broader purpose in our lives, something we are constantly working to improve or strive toward. Unlike goals, our purpose in life is usually open-ended, e.g., to be a good parent. Despite our purpose in life being open-ended, it can still guide our intentions and how we spend our time and effort each day. It helps narrow down who one wants to be and the contributions one wishes to make.

Now, this begs the question: how does one find their purpose in life? Most importantly, reflection is needed to know what matters to the individual; if they are still unsure, volunteering is a good way to start. Through volunteering, people are exposed to a variety of communities, and through that, they can find a community they genuinely care about, and that becomes their purpose in life.

All in all, everybody’s purpose in life might be different, but it should be everyone’s driving force, shaping their actions and helping them better themselves every day.

Written by: Jovan Chow

01/2026

References

PsyD, A. A. (2020, November 25). Moving from setting resolutions in the new year to setting intentions now. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/human-beings-being-human/202011/set-new-years-resolutions-or-live-intention-now

Saulnier, B. (2022, April 6). ‘What’s Your Purpose in Life?’ Psychology Prof Explains Why that Question Makes All the Difference - Cornellians | Cornell University. Cornellians | Cornell University. https://alumni.cornell.edu/cornellians/purpose-psychology/

Seven ways to find your purpose in life. (n.d.). Greater Good. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/seven_ways_to_find_your_purpose_in_life