The connection between goals and happiness

Studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between having goals, taking steps towards our goals and emotional well being.

Sometimes, one of the best things you can do in the morning is look at your Could Do list and choose one item you can dedicate at least a little time to. Putting some effort into one of your goals increases feelings of well being and happiness. Even a little effort towards a goal increases dopamine levels. Increased dopamine gives us even more motivation.

Researchers have found that the bigger the goal is, the better we feel.

It's easy to look for the benefits of happy chemicals like dopamine from less beneficial sources like social media or games on our phone. Next time you are reaching for your phone, try picking up your could do list instead and pick one thing you can give even 15 minutes to and see how you feel.

If you're feeling down or stuck in life, is it because you are lacking in goals? If you don't have something bigger to look forward to in your life, consider taking a course, learning something new, or starting a small business on the side. Life is about expansion, growing, evolving and learning new things.

If you have a big goal that you're working towards, I'd love to hear about it.