You’ve always known pursuing your goals is a smart thing to do. After all, you’re more likely to reach your goals if you pursue them with gusto. But did you know the very act of pursuing your goals is also good for your health in a few ways? Goals are good. Also, the actions you take to pursue them are good. And this, in turn, points to lessons on how you can be most effective at work.
New research conducted longitudinally—with over 3,000 returning participants over 18 years—found when people were optimistic and persistent in pursuing their goals they tended to have less depression and anxiety. In another study, when people had a greater sense of life purpose, they were more likely to accept and adopt healthy behaviors.
Those are some impressive outcomes based on clear goals and purpose.
You’ve probably read about the importance of setting S.M.A.R.T. goals (those that are Specific, Measurable, Accountable, Realistic, Timebound). But this recent research points to new ways to think about how purpose and goals can make you more effective at work. Here’s how it matters and how to put it into practice.
From Tracy Brower, Forbes
