Distinction: Goals Vs Shoulds
Definitions
Goals - something you want and are willing to work towards
Shoulds - something you think you have to get to get what you really want
Comparisons
comes from your being vs. comes from outside
Example
Irene set goals at the beginning of the year to exercise daily, to produce a new brochure for her business, and to pay off debt. These were things she thought would make her happier, but the goals didn't inspire her or connect with her at a deep level. When she set a goal to double the value she gave her clients and another to plan a dream vacation, she started having a lot more fun pursuing them.
Key Point
A goal is a result worth pursuing. With an authentic goal, you enjoy pursuing it, but you don't feel driven or attached to it. You feel fine about changing it or letting go of it. A should is what you've heard is the right things to do, or something which seems like the means to an end. A should goal has risk, potential consequences, and significance if you don't get it. A should-based goal is usually a little dull. It doesn't light you up.
Benefits
Shoulds are either hard to get or unfulfilling when you get them.