Goal vs. Wish

Attribute	Goal	Wish
Definition	Something that a person or organization aims to achieve	A desire or hope for something to happen
Intentionality	Usually involves a specific plan or strategy to achieve the desired outcome	May not always have a specific plan or strategy associated with it
Timeframe	Often has a specific deadline or timeline for achievement	May be more open-ended and not tied to a specific timeframe
Importance	Typically seen as more significant or crucial in achieving a desired outcome	May be seen as more of a personal desire or preference

Definition

A goal is a specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objective that a person sets out to achieve. It is something that requires effort, planning, and dedication to accomplish. Goals are often seen as stepping stones towards a larger vision or purpose in life. On the other hand, a wish is a desire or hope for something to happen, but it may not necessarily be accompanied by a concrete plan or action steps to make it a reality. Wishes are often more vague and dream-like compared to goals.

Specificity

One key difference between goals and wishes is the level of specificity involved. Goals are typically very specific and well-defined, with clear parameters for success. For example, a goal might be to lose 10 pounds in three months by exercising three times a week and eating a balanced diet. In contrast, wishes are often more general and open-ended. For instance, a wish might be to be happy and healthy, without any specific details on how to achieve that state.

Measurability

Goals are also characterized by their measurability. This means that progress towards a goal can be tracked and quantified. For example, if the goal is to save $1000 by the end of the year, it is easy to measure how much money has been saved each month to ensure that the goal is on track. Wishes, on the other hand, are often difficult to measure because they lack specific criteria for success. For instance, wishing for world peace is a noble sentiment, but it is challenging to measure progress towards achieving such a lofty goal.

Achievability

Another important attribute to consider when comparing goals and wishes is achievability. Goals are typically set with the belief that they are attainable with effort and dedication. They are realistic and within reach, given the right resources and support. Wishes, on the other hand, may be more fantastical or improbable. For example, wishing to win the lottery without buying a ticket or having any luck is unlikely to come true. Goals are grounded in reality, while wishes may be more fantastical or idealistic.

Relevance

Goals are usually relevant to a person's values, priorities, and long-term objectives. They are aligned with what is important to the individual and contribute to their overall sense of fulfillment and purpose. For example, if someone values health and fitness, setting a goal to run a marathon would be relevant to their personal values. Wishes, on the other hand, may not always be directly related to a person's core values or priorities. They may be more whimsical or fleeting in nature, without a deep connection to the individual's true desires.

Time-Bound

One final attribute to consider when comparing goals and wishes is the element of time. Goals are typically time-bound, with a specific deadline or timeframe for completion. This helps to create a sense of urgency and motivation to work towards the goal. For example, setting a goal to finish writing a book within six months provides a clear timeline for progress. Wishes, on the other hand, may not have a specific timeframe attached to them. They may be more open-ended and indefinite, without a sense of urgency or deadline for fulfillment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, goals and wishes are both important aspects of human motivation and desire. While goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objectives that require effort and planning to accomplish, wishes are more general, vague, and dream-like desires that may not have a concrete plan for realization. Understanding the attributes of goals and wishes can help individuals set meaningful objectives and aspirations that align with their values and priorities.