A farmer had a dog who used to sit by the roadside waiting for vehicles to come around. As soon as one came he would run down the road, barking and trying to overtake it. One day a neighbor asked the farmer “Do you think your dog is ever going to catch a car?” The farmer replied, “That is not what bothers me. What bothers me is what he would do if he ever caught one.”
-Gean Gordon
Inquiry
Are you behaving like that dog who is pursuing meaningless goals? Quiet your mind and become curious as to why you are reacting in this manner.
- Are you trying to seek approval from others?
- Do you feel you need to reach these goals to improve your self-esteem?
- Will you have a bigger home, nicer car, and better job title make you feel more fulfilled?
These answers will enable you to determine if you’re chasing after meaningless goals.