Setting the Right Goals: Balancing Interest and Passion in Life

The journey of life is replete with questions, one of the most profound being: What is the goal of life? While some believe it is to achieve the greatest possible happiness, others might argue that life's purpose lies in continuous transformation and exploration. Joo Ferreira's insights offer a compelling perspective on this eternal query. In his post, 'Life Philosophy-Abstracts,' he prompts us to reflect on the importance of choosing a path that aligns with our true desires and interests.

The Complexity of Setting Goals

Setting a goal is indeed a daunting task. At its core, the concept of a 'goal' remains elusive, except for those rare moments of clarity when we can pinpoint a meaningful objective. According to Joo Ferreira, one of the main challenges lies in the search for suitable goals. Often, we end up setting unrealistic or externally influenced goals, lacking a clear understanding of our own aspirations.

Engineering as a Metaphor for Life Choices

To illustrate this point further, let us consider the field of engineering. Post inter-HSE (higher secondary education), prospective college students are faced with the decision to choose a career path. Among the myriad of options, many opt for fields like medicine, engineering, or other technical disciplines. The decision-making process is often influenced by a combination of interest and societal pressures.

At the age of 18, many students, particularly in developing countries, may not possess the maturity to identify and follow their true interests. A common example is that of a student who chooses mechanical engineering simply because they perceive it as a path to designing luxurious cars or racing bikes. Their excitement about engineering may wane when they actually start their course of study. Unlike the glamorous images in magazines or social media, the reality of mechanical engineering is often much broader and more diverse.

The Early Struggles and Frustrations

Upon starting their studies, they soon find that their hopes and expectations do not align with the reality of the career. This realization can be jarring, leading to a period of frustration. Many students struggle with the notion of finding a job in their chosen field, leading them to make decisions based on lesser-preferred sectors like IT, banking, or others. This often stems from their initial passion and technical ego, which can become a significant obstacle.

One of the common phrases during this phase is, “I have wasted four to six years on Mechanical Engineering and now I have to do something else.” Such regrets and frustrations can lead to a momentary paralysis, where individuals feel that it is too late to make any changes. They may succumb to the mentality that it is too late to pursue their true passion.

The Power of Persistent Faith and Right Actions

However, the narrative does not end there. Life is filled with opportunities and it is never too late to make changes. According to Joo Ferreira, our decisions are influenced by three key factors: interest and passion, self-ego, and satisfaction with earning. Understanding and balancing these factors can greatly help in making informed and fulfilling life choices.

While the story of a mechanical engineer serves as an illustration, the principles apply to every individual who wakes up every day with dreams and aspirations. It is crucial to align our goals with our true passions and inner desires. Only then can we truly experience harmony and contentment in our lives.

So, gear up and take one step closer to the moment that makes you happy. We are more than we appear to be. We can grow and develop ourselves by acquiring the right knowledge and taking the right actions. At the beginning of any journey, we must maintain faith in the process and in ourselves. This will ensure that we are not only living but thriving in every moment.

Remember, the goal of life is not merely to achieve a preconceived goal, but to live a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and true to who we are. Let us strive to live a life that aligns with our true passions and interests.