Weekly Prompt #27: What is it about setting goals that fills us with anxiety?
Hi everyone, I hope you are all being easy on yourself this week.
A couple of weeks ago we discussed: Write a letter to your anxiety Thank you to all who participated and shared your thoughts with us. I appreciate you all. I hope all who may read it find it relatable too. If anyone hasn't shared yet, please share them here and I look forward to reading and discussing them with you.
This week's prompt: What is it about setting goals that fill with anxiety?
It's usually the fear and idea that I won't or don't have the ability to achieve the goal. Some of my bigger, long term goals can seem so out of reach or "too much". Some of them require a bit of risk, and just knowing that in general makes me anxious.
@cafedaydreams It is understandable that setting goals which feel out of reach or require risk can bring up anxiety. Focusing on long term goals may also highlight uncertainties about the future. Your awareness of what's triggering anxiety is helpful to find ways to deal with it. What aspects of taking the first steps towards your goals feel most challenging in this moment?
@ASilentObserver Well, I had to adjust my goals. During the last ten years, I had jobs that were great and some that were mediocre. I couldn't hold on to any of them because of my illness. I know I said that I have pretty much given up on work, but I think instead of doing that, I will shoot for something doable that is part-time. The hardest thing about goal setting for me is still having hope in reaching them after so many failed attempts.
@michaelR860 It sounds understandably discouraging to have adjusted goals and experienced challenges holding jobs long-term due to illness. Having hope can be difficult after setbacks, yet keeping hope alive even in small ways is important. You clearly have strength and resilience from navigating difficulties over the past ten years. What gives you a sense of purpose or joy, even in small part-time steps, help sustain your hope? We are all here with you Michale <3
@ASilentObserver What is it about setting goals that fill with anxiety?
For me it is maybe the goal being too big or small there is no in between , there is at time but very rarely
@GoldenRuleJG It sounds like setting goals can bring up feelings of anxiety for you sometimes. Reflecting on what you shared, it may be the pressure to have goals that are just the right size - not too big or too small. What thoughts or feelings come up for you around finding that balance?
It’s more of a curiosity and stress is the goal well-layered - interestingly more relaxed when my goal is simple 👍😁
