Why are dreams so important when setting career goals?

In this article, I want to touch upon the importance of setting career goals and the difference between short-term, long-term objectives and what dreaming has got to do with all of this.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance in your career, having clear goals can provide direction and motivation. But where do these goals come from? It's crucial to understand how short-term and long-term goals can complement each other and help you achieve your aspirations, but knowing where these goals originate from is a must.

But how do you set goals when you don’t know what you want to do? My advice is to set them anyway. Even if they are not clear, even if you do not know if this is actually what you want to do. Shocked? In disbelief? Hear me out. Just ask yourself the question – What do I want? What are my true dreams? Not the ones family, peers or society is trying to install in you, but what you actually want.

Dream about the life you want to live and the career you see yourself being part of. The world is your oyster. And then write them down, even if they sound ridiculous, unachievable, castles in the sky kinda’ dreaming. Do it anyway! If it makes you feel good, it is more likely to be one step in the right direction. Nobody ever told me this, but after doing my research, the truth is, if it lights you up, you should go try it. Because as you start to explore your options, you will start to clarify those goals and become more confident in distinguishing intuitively what your true goals are.

During my very early stages of career transition, when I was trying to assess what else there was for me to do other than the legal field, I went to work with Waterstones. I had no idea what I wanted to do after Law, so I took a role that enabled me to get some what I call ‘brain space’ to think about what it was I wanted to do. Secretly, I thought I might want to be a writer, so I just went for it.

When I entered Waterstones, I had no idea what books I loved. I knew I never wanted to see another Law book in my life again. I just had no clue what the things were that I could read instead. During this time, I started to get reacquainted with what I loved to read and immersed myself in the self-development sections. This is when I realised how important setting goals was.

Nothing empowers us more than being able to actualise our dreams.

Short-term goals are those that you aim to achieve in the near future, typically within a year or less. These goals are often more specific and actionable, such as completing a certification, running a 10k, improving a particular skill, or landing a new job. These are a great way to start exploring the options out there without locking yourself into long-term plans, but they are a vital part in directing your monthly, weekly and daily goals. Short-term goals help you stay focused and provide immediate milestones to celebrate and gain clarity into your direction’s aptness, keeping you motivated and on track or ready to adjust the trajectory.

On the other hand, long-term goals are broader and more visionary, spanning several years and decades. Research shows us this is where the happiness factor hides: pursuing long-term goals. These might include publishing your first book, reaching a leadership position, running your own business, or making a significant impact in your field. Long-term goals require sustained effort and planning; it’s a marathon, but they give you a sense of purpose and direction. This is where you can place your career aspiration goals once you have a better idea of what you might want to do. Because, remember, dreams are goals with a date once action is taken. Differentiating between long-term and short-term goals just gives us a tool to help us achieve our dreams.

Short-term goals can act as stepping stones towards your long-term aspirations, allowing you to build momentum and gain confidence or be the guide on what your monthly, weekly and daily goals should be to keep moving forward.

It's important to regularly review and adjust your goals to ensure they align with your evolving interests, dreams and circumstances. Remember, your career journey is unique, and setting both short-term and long-term goals can help you navigate it with clarity and intention. Take the time to reflect on your ambitions, seek guidance from mentors, and stay committed to your path. Nothing empowers us more than being able to actualise our dreams.