MIT philosophy professor Kieran Setiya argues that an unrelenting focus on goals can lead to frequent disappointments, ultimately hindering our capacity for true happiness.
In our fast-paced lives, many of us leave little space for rest or true relaxation. This often drives us to set new goals relentlessly in pursuit of constant productivity. Yet, as detailed in a The Guardian article from July 8, 2021, adhering to endless to-do lists or launching new projects can serve as an escape from underlying issues like depression. Here's the paradox: achieving a goal eliminates the very purpose that gave your life direction, potentially triggering an identity crisis as you scramble for the next challenge.
This has a clear neurochemical basis. Anticipating a goal triggers dopamine release—the 'pleasure hormone'—fueling motivation for survival behaviors. A 2009 University of Cambridge study found that gamblers experience a stronger dopamine surge from losses than wins, explaining why victory often feels anticlimactic after the anticipation.
How can we sidestep this letdown? Drawing from Aristotle's concept of telos (goal), Kieran Setiya—in his book Midlife: A Philosophical Guide—advocates for 'telic' activities: pursuits done purely for their own pleasure, without ulterior motives, focused on present-moment well-being.
Think gardening, beach outings, mountain hikes, singing, sports, or learning a language playfully. Crucially, avoid turning these into rigid objectives. Setiya recommends integrating them as valuable complements to our primary goals and missions, enriching life without replacing purpose.
