Joy of Life Discussion Group July 3, 2012 Today’s Topic: Goals to Give Meaning and Joy to Our Lives

Joy of Life Discussion Group
July 3, 2012
Today’s Topic: Goals to Give Meaning and Joy to Our Lives

Some of the things we discussed today were:
-Striving and pursuing goals, activities and interests that excite us can keep us more vibrant, alive and healthy, as well as living longer and more meaningfully.
-Do what you love and what makes you excited in life.
-Let your imagination run. Step out – way out and don’t let fear or doubts hold you back.
-Does everyone need major goals or is just following our daily routine and living a good life enough to make us happy?
-Would major goals make life better?
-Small goals can be just as good as big ones.
-As we age, sometimes “not doing anything” is ok and good.
-Peace and contentment can be a great goal too.
-We may have already met our major goals, ie. career, etc. and now lesser goals might be just fine.
-Goals based on ego or the expectations of others or their judgments or approval are never as fulfilling in the long run as goals that come from within us.
-Sometimes maintaining the status quo is an ok goal.
-In some circumstances, just making it another day/month/year can be a good goal, and challenging as well.
-Letting inspiration flow through us, resulting in creativity, brings out wonderful goals.
-We should never let what we have to do in our society, such as career, prevent us from following our true path in life.
-Some of us need external stimulus and some don’t, using what comes from inside.
-For many, life unfolds without much planning or effort.
-When little flashes of inspiration jump in, pay attention.
-We need to nurture all the various aspects of ourselves.
- When in any relationship with others, and goals don’t match or coincide, remember, it’s your life and you cannot live a full life if your significant goals remain unsatisfied. However, it’s necessary to use give and take and compromise, using love and looking for mutualities wherever possible.
-Reflect carefully to determine the best goals/path for you.
-Pursuing what we love makes us excited, fills us with passion and will fill our lives with joy, making us happier and having the same effect on those around us.

Fred Richter 7-3-12