Curtin School of Population Health’s Dr Hugh Riddell recently led a study that found some key indicators. These insights support people in pursuing their goals with greater confidence, even in the midst of adversities. Published in Nature Human Behaviour, this meta-analysis encompassed 235 studies. It brought together over 1,400 scientific findings in areas such as psychology, public health, and social sciences. Here’s what we learned about the factors that shape how we adjust our goals. It further provides the important message that giving up on unrealistic goals isn’t a failure of willpower.
Dr. Riddell’s research aims to establish a clearer understanding of when individuals should persist with their original plans or consider making adjustments. Among their findings, the study offers several predictors—psychological and personality traits—that convey how people will approach their goals. These are everything from personality traits, coping styles, their social support networks, their life circumstances.
Insights into Goal Adjustment
Dr. Riddell shared that the research provides a complex, textured understanding of changing goals. He stated, “It isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, as different people take different paths and a wide range of things can all impact how we approach our goals in life.” The research underscores how powerful human factors can shape our reactions to tough problems. Motivation, maturity, unfortunate circumstances, emotional intelligence, and the depth of our interpersonal connections all make an enormous difference in how we meet life’s challenges.
Its large-scale, transdisciplinary approach provides a unique and rich backdrop for delving deeper into the multi-layered, intricate connection between goal-setting and well-being. Dr. Riddell noted that “this study essentially distills all the previous research down to a conceptual roadmap charting what kinds of things might contribute to adjusting one’s goals and how this might benefit a person.”
He underscored the dangers of holding on to impossible targets. “Sticking with impossible goals can take a real toll, with previous research suggesting it can lead to higher stress, poorer well-being and even physical health costs such as illness,” he remarked.
The Next Steps in Research
Looking to the future, Dr. Riddell stressed the need for more investigation on the best ways to set and manage goals. He stated, “Finding out when exactly people should stick with their goals or change course, without giving up too early, is really the next piece of the puzzle.” This next phase of research aims to pinpoint more precise indicators that signal when goal adjustment is necessary for better mental health and overall quality of life.
It’s a big review, but it’s worth your time. Most importantly, it prepares the terrain for more in-depth studies that will equip people to make smart decisions about their aims. By deciphering these indicators we might not only prevent deterioration of one’s mental health, but possibly even learn how to better cope with our unavoidable struggles.
The Value of Letting Go
One key takeaway from Dr. Riddell’s research is the positive impact of letting go of unrealistic goals followed by re-engaging with achievable ones. He indicated that “letting go and—crucially—reengaging with new goals was found to restore purpose and well-being.” This insight empowers individuals to view goal adjustment not as a failure but as a strategic move towards enhancing their quality of life.
Dr. Riddell’s conclusions call for a serious change in how we understand the process of achieving goals. Knowing that being able to adjust their dreams can help individuals experience more happiness might encourage individuals to rethink their goals. Their research is a good reminder that being flexible and adaptable can make us all smarter. Adanamic outlined personal growth and mental well-being.
