Choosing the “right” goals

“There are consequences of trying to pursue non-optimal goals and failing, from anxiety to stress to low self-esteem. Some recent literature has found goals can be a double-edged sword, especially if you set ones that are not healthy or relevant”
–Kristina Howansky, assistant professor of psychology at St. Mary’s College of Maryland

It’s important to choose the right goals. This is why a short-term challenge with a definite end date is so effective. If you blindly commit to becoming a painter or a director or a singer without trying that identity on first, that can be anxiety-inducing. “Did I choose the wrong thing?” “Is this what I’m meant to be doing” It can get confusing. 

Sticking with something for too long can become a detriment to artistry and joy. I hesitate to write this because I feel like it’s fodder for the resistance. Indefinite commitments breed resistance. But we can all stick with short-term creative sprints with definite end dates, even if they’re not for us, without giving the resistance a foothold. Then we need to assess and refine what our craft looks like.