Unnecessary Goals

I recently read an article called “Vision Problems” and it started with the following story:

In 1924, George Leigh Mallory, a British schoolmaster and socialite, determined he would ascend the as-yet unconquered peak of Mount Everest. When a reporter asked why he intended to climb the formidable mountain, he replied: "Because it's there." On June 8, the thirty-eight-year-old father of three young children was last sighted trudging up the mountain with his companion Andrew Irvine. Seventy-five years later, in 1999, an American climbing team discovered Mallory's perfectly preserved body on the slopes of the mountain. Mallory had sacrificed his life in an attempt to accomplish an unnecessary goal.[1]

Wow! Chasing unnecessary goals … that made me think about my personal goals and their significance. I realized that goal setting happens constantly. You and I are continually making choices about what we will and will not attempt, whether small endeavors or big projects. One of the “tricks of the trade” is to become more intentional about our pursuits.

In order to do that well, you have to ask good questions. Though these are just a few possibilities, maybe they will help you formulate your own set of questions about the goals you choose to pursue.

1)     Why should I start this?

2)     If I need to change course, can I easily stop this once I get started.

3)     Will this require more time, energy, and money than other, more important, goals?

4)     Is success at this about something more than my ego or bragging rights? Am I simply trying to prove something to someone by doing this?

5)     Do other significant individuals in my life see this as necessary?

6)     How is this tied to a bigger and grander purpose or vision? 

7)     Who will benefit as a result from success?

8)     Do I think this will make the Heavenly Father smile?

This month’s Momentum focuses on the most necessary goal of all—closeness to Christ. Without it nothing matters, whether personal or otherwise. I hope that the articles and resources simply act as a reminder for you to make it a priority to pursue with passion the One who did the same for you!

Have a great August!

Eric Schroeter