You’ve set goals before—hit milestones, chased success, maybe even checked off everything on your to-do list. But something still feels off, doesn’t it? That nagging sense that despite all your effort, the happiness you thought you’d find remains out of reach.
What if the problem isn’t you, but the kind of goals you’re setting?
The truth is, happiness isn’t about ticking boxes or achieving what looks good on paper. It comes from setting goals that grow every are of our life— mind, relationships, body, and purpose. These are the goals that don’t just bring short-lived excitement but create a sense of lasting joy and fulfillment.
In this guide, you’ll discover practical, actionable goals that you can start setting today—goals that are real, attainable, and designed to help you feel happier, not just be successful. Because happiness isn’t just a feeling—it’s the result of living intentionally and aligning your actions with what truly matters.
Let’s get started.
What Are the Goals of Happiness?
When we talk about “goals of happiness,” we’re not just talking about arbitrary achievements or fleeting wins. Happiness goals are intentional milestones—actions and decisions that actively improve your well-being, fulfillment, and sense of joy.
The problem is, not all goals are created equal. Many people chase false goals—things that seem like they’ll bring happiness but often leave you feeling empty.
False Goals vs. Authentic Goals
False Goals:
- Chasing status: Titles, income, or recognition that don’t align with who you are.
- Striving for perfection: Setting unrealistic standards and feeling unworthy when you can’t meet them.
- Living in comparison: Pursuing someone else’s version of success instead of your own.
- Example: Man of us think getting the promotion we work hard for will make us feel fulfilled, but typically we still feel burnt out and disconnected from what really matters.
Authentic Goals:
- Goals that are values-driven: Aligned with what truly matters to you.
- Goals that are purpose-centered: Bringing meaning and a sense of contribution.
- Goals that are fulfilling: Nourishing your mind, body, relationships, and spirit.
- Example: “I set a goal to spend quality time with my family every Sunday, and now I feel more connected and present.”
Practical Steps to Set Happiness Goals
- Reflect on Past Goals:
- Write down 3 goals you’ve chased in the past that didn’t bring happiness.
- Ask yourself: Why didn’t these goals work for me? Was I chasing approval, avoiding fear, or living someone else’s dream?
- Replace False Goals with Authentic Ones:
- Identify what truly matters to you (e.g., connection, personal growth, health).
- Replace past goals with ones that align with your values.
- Example: Replace “Work 70 hours to get promoted” with “Protect my weekends for rest and family time.”
- Start Small to Build Momentum:
- Choose one small habit to get started. Happiness grows from consistent, intentional actions.
- Example: If your goal is connection, start by texting one friend to check in today.
When you replace false goals with authentic ones, you’re no longer chasing happiness—you’re creating it. Small, intentional choices lead to big changes over time.
What’s one goal you can let go of today, and what will you replace it with?
What Kind of Goals Make You Happy?
Not all goals lead to happiness. The kind of goals that truly make you happy are the ones that nourish your body, mind, relationships, and purpose. They’re goals that align with who you are and activate the natural systems in your brain that produce feelings of joy, connection, and fulfillment.
Here are four types of goals that science shows naturally lead to happiness:
Connection Goals: Strengthen Relationships
Humans are wired for connection. When you invest time and effort into building healthy relationships, your brain releases oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” which promotes trust, closeness, and emotional well-being.
Example: Scheduling weekly catch-ups with friends, spending undistracted time with your spouse, or connecting with loved ones through acts of kindness.
Growth Goals: Learn, Improve, and Challenge Yourself
Setting goals that push you to learn and grow stimulates dopamine, the “reward chemical,” which motivates you and creates a sense of accomplishment. Personal growth goals can challenge your comfort zone while boosting confidence.
Example: Learning a new skill, reading a personal development book, or tackling a small fear you’ve been avoiding.
Health Goals: Care for Your Body and Mind
Your physical and mental well-being are foundational to happiness. Activities like exercise, mindfulness, and sleep release endorphins—natural stress relievers that boost mood and energy levels.
- Example: Starting a 10-minute morning stretch routine, prioritizing sleep, or practicing meditation to calm your mind.
Purpose Goals: Serve a Higher Purpose
Goals that align with your purpose—helping others/ contributing to a cause—brings a sense of meaning and satisfaction. These goals foster long-term happiness because they take the focus off yourself and create a positive impact.
Example: Volunteering at a community center, mentoring someone, or working on a project that makes a difference.
Practical Steps to Set Happiness Goals Today
- Reflect on What Brings You Joy:
- Write down 3 activities, moments, or areas of life that give you energy, fulfillment, or joy.
- Ask: When do I feel happiest? What lights me up?
- Align Your Goals with These Areas:
- Pick one type of goal: Connection, Growth, Health, or Purpose.
- Example: If you feel happiest spending time with loved ones, set a “Connection Goal” to schedule one meaningful catch-up per week.
- Take One Actionable Step Today:
- Don’t wait—start small. Happiness grows with action.
- Call a friend to reconnect.
- Spend 5 minutes learning a new skill.
- Do a short breathing exercise for your mind and body.
- Write one way you could contribute to a cause that matters to you.
- Don’t wait—start small. Happiness grows with action.
Happiness isn’t found in chasing more. It’s found in aligning your goals with what truly matters—your relationships, growth, health, and purpose.
What’s one small step you can take today to move closer to happiness?
How to Make Happiness a Goal?
Happiness isn’t something we stumble upon—it’s something we create through daily effort and intention. Too often, we treat happiness as a distant outcome, believing that “one day” we’ll feel fulfilled when we achieve, do or have X, Y, or Z.
But happiness doesn’t work that way.
Instead of waiting for happiness, we can make it a daily goal—something we prioritize, plan, and actively pursue. Treating happiness like any other goal makes it more tangible, achievable, and part of your everyday life.
Use the SMART Goal Method to Set Happiness Goals
To turn happiness into an actionable goal, follow the SMART framework:
- Specific: What exactly makes you happy?
- Example: Spending time with family, practicing mindfulness, learning something new.
- Measurable: How will you track progress?
- Example: “I’ll spend 15 minutes each morning writing down 3 things I’m grateful for.”
- Achievable: Take small, realistic steps that fit into your current life.
- Example: Don’t aim to “meditate for an hour daily” if you’re new to mindfulness—start with 5 minutes.
- Relevant: Does this goal align with your values and what truly matters to you?
- Example: If you value connection, your goal might involve spending quality time with loved ones.
- Time-bound: Set a clear deadline to keep yourself accountable.
- Example: “I’ll practice gratitude every morning for 30 days.”
Happiness Goal Example
Here’s what a SMART happiness goal looks like:
“I will spend 15 minutes each morning practicing gratitude by journaling three things I’m thankful for over the next 30 days.”
This goal is clear, actionable, and easy to track. Small steps like this build momentum and shift your mindset toward daily happiness.
Practical Steps to Make Happiness a Daily Goal
- Write Your Own Happiness Goal Statement:
- Identify one small action that makes you happy.
- Use the SMART method to turn it into a goal.
- Example: “I will spend 10 minutes walking outside every afternoon to clear my mind and improve my mood.”
- Add It to Your Daily Routine:
- Happiness grows through consistency. Schedule your goal into your day just like any other priority.
- Tip: Pair it with something you already do. (e.g., journal after your morning coffee, take a mindful walk after lunch).
- Track Your Progress:
- Use a habit tracker, a notebook, or a simple checklist to celebrate daily wins.
Happiness doesn’t happen by chance—it’s created through intentional, daily action. Start small, set clear goals, and make happiness part of your routine.
What’s one small happiness goal you can commit to today? Write it down and take the first step toward a happier you.
What Are the 4 Main Goals in Life?
When it comes to creating a balanced and fulfilling life, there are 4 main goals that serve as pillars for lasting happiness:
- Personal Development
- Relationships
- Health
- Purpose
These areas are interconnected, supporting our overall well-being. When one is neglected, we will feel off balance. Let’s break them down.
Personal Growth: Expanding Skills, Mindset, and Habits
Personal growth is about becoming the best version of yourself—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s not about perfection but progress, learning, and challenging yourself to step outside your comfort zone.
Examples of Personal Growth Goals:
- Learn a new skill or hobby.
- Read one personal development book per month.
- Develop a daily habit of journaling or self-reflection.
Relationships: Building Meaningful, Healthy Connections
Strong robust relationships are a cornerstone of happiness. Human connection builds trust, love, and belonging—needs that we’re wired to fulfill. Investing time in nurturing relationships provides emotional support and joy.
Examples of Relationship Goals:
- Have a weekly “unplugged” dinner with family or friends.
- Reconnect with someone you’ve lost touch with.
- Schedule intentional quality time with a partner or loved one.
Health: Prioritizing Physical, Emotional, and Mental Well-Being
Your body and mind are the foundation of everything you do. When you care for your health, you improve your energy, focus, and resilience, making it easier to pursue other life goals.
Examples of Health Goals:
- Walk for 20 minutes every day.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress.
- Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Purpose: Living with Meaning and Contributing to Something Bigger
Purpose gives our life significance and direction. It’s about contributing to something beyond yourself, whether through work, relationships, or acts of service. Living with purpose leads to a deeper, more sustainable form of happiness.
Examples of Purpose Goals:
- Volunteer once a month for a cause you care about.
- Mentor someone who could benefit from your knowledge.
- Align your career or daily work with your values and passions.
Practical Steps to Find Balance with These Goals
- Assess Which Area Feels Neglected:
- Take a moment to reflect: Which of the 4 areas—Personal Growth, Relationships, Health, or Purpose—feels most out of balance right now?
- Set One Micro-Goal for Improvement:
- Choose a small, achievable step to start improving that area today.
- Example: If you feel disconnected, set a goal to call one friend this week.
- Example: If your health needs attention, commit to drinking an extra glass of water each day.
- Choose a small, achievable step to start improving that area today.
By focusing on these 4 main goals, you create a life that feels balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling. Start small, stay intentional, and remember—happiness grows when you invest in what truly matters.
Which area will you focus on today? Write down one micro-goal and take the first step toward a more balanced life.
What Are the 4 Goals of Life?
For centuries, Eastern philosophy has offered a deeper perspective on living a meaningful and fulfilling life. Known as the Puruṣārthas—the “four goals of life”—these principles guide us toward balance, happiness, and purpose. They remind us that true fulfillment comes not from chasing a single goal but from integrating these four areas into our lives.
1. Dharma (Purpose): Living with Integrity and Alignment
Dharma refers to living a life of integrity, purpose, and alignment with your values. It’s about doing what’s right for yourself, others, and the world around you. When you live with purpose, your actions feel meaningful and connected to something greater than yourself.
Example: Choosing a career or role that aligns with your values, serving your family with love, or contributing to your community.
2. Artha (Prosperity): Creating Financial Security to Support Your Life
Artha is about achieving financial stability and success—not for its own sake but as a foundation to support your goals, relationships, and well-being. Prosperity allows you to live comfortably and provide for the things that matter most.
Example: Saving for the future, creating a healthy work-life balance, or pursuing opportunities to build financial independence.
3. Kama (Pleasure): Enjoying Life’s Joys and Relationships
Kama focuses on enjoying life’s pleasures— meaningful relationships, hobbies, beauty. It’s about being fully present and allowing yourself to experience life’s delights without guilt or shame.
Example: Spending time with loved ones, pursuing creative passions, or appreciating simple joys like a beautiful sunset or good food.
4. Moksha (Freedom): Finding Peace, Self-Acceptance, and Fulfillment
Moksha represents liberation—freedom from stress, societal pressures, and internal struggles. It’s about finding peace with who you are and embracing a life of self-acceptance and fulfillment.
Example: Practicing mindfulness, letting go of perfectionism, or healing emotional wounds that hold you back.
Practical Steps to Align with the 4 Goals of Life
- Journal for Clarity:
- Reflect on each goal: “What does Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha mean for me personally?”
- Write one sentence for each goal to define how it applies to your life right now.
- Set One Action Step for Each Goal:
- Dharma: Identify one action that aligns with your purpose (e.g., volunteering or prioritizing integrity in a decision).
- Artha: Take a step toward financial stability (e.g., setting a budget, saving a specific amount).
- Kama: Plan one pleasurable activity this week—something that brings you joy.
- Moksha: Practice one act of release (e.g., meditation, journaling to let go of a limiting belief).
The beauty of the 4 goals of life is their balance. By integrating purpose, prosperity, pleasure, and freedom into your daily routine, you create a life that feels whole, intentional, and deeply fulfilling.
Which of these goals feels most meaningful to you right now? Take one small step today to bring it to life.
What Are the 7 Most Important Areas of Life?
Happiness isn’t found in one single part of your life—it’s built across seven key areas. When these areas are nurtured, they create a foundation for lasting happiness and fulfillment.
1. Relationships
Emotional support, connection, healing and a sense of belonging are all found in relationships. Relationships essential for happiness because we are wired to connect and relate with others.
- Examples: Spending intentional time with family, friends and our partner.
2. Physical Health
Your body is the vessel through which you experience life. Prioritizing physical health gives you the energy, strength, and clarity to pursue what makes you happy.
- Examples: Exercising regularly, eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, and listening to your body’s needs.
3. Mental/Emotional Health
A healthy mind is as important as a healthy body. The ability to manage stress, process and work thru feelings, and build resilience are all the result of emotional well-being.
- Examples: Mindfulness, journaling, confiding in a trusted friend or therapist, or learning to set and enforce boundaries to protect your peace are the result of focusing on our emotional health.
4. Career/Finances
We work a significant amount of time… A career that allows us to live comfortably and pursue meaningful experiences matters a lot. When our career aligns with our values, it contributes to purpose and fulfillment.
- Examples: Finding balance in your work, creating a financial plan, or pursuing work that feels meaningful.
5. Personal Growth
Personal growth is about expanding who you are—learning, challenging yourself, and becoming a better version of yourself. Growth builds confidence and creates a sense of achievement.
- Examples: Reading books, developing new skills, stepping outside your comfort zone, or seeking opportunities for self-improvement.
6. Purpose/Spirituality
A sense of purpose connects you to something greater than yourself. Whether through faith, spirituality, or meaningful work, living with purpose provides direction and fulfillment.
- Examples: Engaging in acts of service, practicing your faith, or spending time reflecting on life’s bigger questions.
7. Fun and Leisure
Fun isn’t frivolous—it’s fuel for a happy life. Making time for joy, creativity, and play prevents burnout and helps you recharge emotionally and physically.
- Examples: Pursuing hobbies, traveling, enjoying a game night with friends, or simply doing something that makes you laugh.
Practical Steps to Cultivate Balance Across These 7 Areas
- Rate Yourself in Each Area:
- On a scale of 1-10, how satisfied are you in each area?
- Example: Relationships (6/10), Health (4/10), Fun and Leisure (3/10).
- Choose 1-2 Areas to Focus On:
- Pick the areas where you feel least satisfied or most out of balance.
- Tip: Don’t overwhelm yourself. Small progress in one area often has a ripple effect on the others.
- Set Micro-Goals for Improvement:
- Start with small, realistic steps to build momentum.
- Example: If Fun and Leisure is lacking, commit to one enjoyable activity per week (e.g., hiking, painting, or watching a comedy).
- Example: If Physical Health needs attention, start walking for 10 minutes daily.
- Start with small, realistic steps to build momentum.
Happiness grows when you invest in all seven areas of life. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress and balance.
What area needs your attention the most right now? Write down one small step you can take to bring more happiness into that part of your life today.
Common Struggles and Solutions
Setting goals for happiness sounds simple, but it often comes with challenges that leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Here are three common struggles people face when pursuing happiness goals—and practical solutions to overcome them.
Struggle 1: Overwhelm from Too Many Goals
It’s easy to set too many goals at once, leaving you feeling scattered and unable to make progress in any area.
Solution: Use the 1-3-5 Happiness Plan
The 1-3-5 Plan simplifies your focus:
- 1 Big Goal: The main, long-term outcome you’re working toward (e.g., improving your health).
- 3 Medium Goals: Smaller milestones that lead to your big goal (e.g., exercising 3 times per week, improving sleep habits, eating more nutritious meals).
- 5 Small Habits: Daily actions that build consistency (e.g., walking for 10 minutes, drinking water with every meal, stretching before bed).
By breaking goals into smaller, achievable steps, you avoid overwhelm and create steady progress that builds confidence.
Struggle 2: Choosing Goals for the Wrong Reasons (Comparison and Approval)
Sometimes, the goals we chase aren’t truly ours. They come from external pressures—trying to live up to someone else’s expectations or comparing ourselves to others.
Solution: Reflect on Your Values and Redefine Success
- Take time to identify what you value and what success looks like for your life.
- Ask yourself: “Am I pursuing this goal because it feels right for me, or because it looks good to others?”
- Write down 3 core values that matter most to you (e.g., connection, growth, freedom). Align your goals with these values.
- Example: If you value connection, replace “buying a bigger house” with “spending more quality time with loved ones.”
When your goals reflect who you are, they become energizing and fulfilling—not draining or empty.
Struggle 3: Feeling Stuck or Unmotivated
Progress can feel slow, and it’s easy to lose motivation when you don’t see immediate results.
Solution: Celebrate Small Wins Daily
- Focus on small, daily victories instead of waiting for the “big win.” Progress builds motivation.
- Example: If your goal is to get healthier, celebrate drinking an extra glass of water, choosing a nourishing meal, or completing a short walk.
- Keep a “Win Journal” to track small accomplishments every day. Seeing progress on paper helps you recognize how far you’ve come.
- Remind yourself: Small steps compound over time into big changes.
Happiness doesn’t come from perfection or instant results—it comes from progress, alignment, and consistency. By breaking goals into manageable steps, staying true to your values, and celebrating small wins, you’ll overcome these common struggles and build a life that feels truly fulfilling.
Which of these struggles feels most familiar to you? Take one step today to apply the solution and move closer to your happiness goals.
Practical Techniques to Set Happiness Goals
Setting goals for happiness doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or complicated. Simple, consistent actions can help you make meaningful progress and build momentum. Here are four practical techniques to get you started:
1. The 5-Minute Rule
When life feels busy, even small efforts toward happiness can make a big impact. The 5-Minute Rule is about taking just five minutes each day to focus on a habit that brings you joy.
- Why It Works: Five minutes feels doable, so you’re less likely to procrastinate. Small habits often lead to bigger changes over time.
- Examples:
- Spend 5 minutes journaling 3 things you’re grateful for.
- Take 5 minutes to stretch, breathe, or enjoy a quiet moment.
- Send a quick message to a friend to reconnect.
2. The 1-3-5 Happiness Plan
The 1-3-5 Plan provides a structured approach to setting happiness goals:
- 1 Big Goal: The ultimate outcome you’re working toward.
- 3 Medium Steps: Key milestones that help you reach your big goal.
- 5 Daily Habits: Small, consistent actions that build momentum.
- Example: If your big goal is to improve your health:
- Big Goal: Feel stronger and more energized in 6 months.
- 3 Medium Steps: Exercise 3 times per week, eat more nutritious meals, get 7-8 hours of sleep.
- 5 Daily Habits: Drink more water, stretch in the morning, take a short walk, avoid screens before bed, eat a vegetable with every meal.
By breaking your goal into smaller pieces, you make it actionable, achievable, and sustainable.
3. Daily Reflection Practice
Reflection is a powerful tool for building happiness because it brings awareness to what’s working in your life and what needs improvement. Ask yourself these two simple questions every day:
- “What brought me happiness today?”
- Reflect on moments, people, or actions that made you feel joyful or fulfilled.
- “What can I do tomorrow to feel more fulfilled?”
- Identify one small step you can take to make tomorrow even better.
- Tip: Keep a small notebook or digital journal to jot down your reflections. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and gain clarity about what truly makes you happy.
4. Visualization Exercise
Visualization is a powerful technique for setting and achieving happiness goals. When you imagine your future self, it helps you identify the steps needed to get there.
- How to Practice:
- Close your eyes and picture yourself 1 year from now.
- Ask yourself: “What does my happiest life look like? What goals got me here?”
- Visualize the details: Who are you with? What are you doing? How do you feel?
- Write down the goals and habits that will lead you to this vision.
- Example: If you visualize yourself feeling confident, healthy, and connected, your goals might include exercising regularly, improving relationships, and finding a creative outlet.
Takeaway
Happiness grows from small, consistent actions taken every day. By trying these techniques—spending just 5 minutes on a happiness habit, planning with the 1-3-5 method, reflecting daily, and visualizing your future—you can set goals that feel realistic, energizing, and life-changing.
Which technique will you try first? Take one step today and start creating the happiness you deserve.
Conclusion
Happiness doesn’t come from chasing milestones or waiting for “one day” to arrive. It’s created through intentional, values-driven goals—goals that nourish every area of your life, from your relationships and personal growth to your health and sense of purpose.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out at once. Happiness grows through the small, consistent steps you take every day.
Final Motivation
Happiness isn’t a finish line. It’s not something you arrive at—it’s something you build.
Every small step matters. Every choice you make to align with your values, take care of yourself, and prioritize what truly brings you joy brings you closer to the life you want.
Start with one goal. Take one step. Trust the process, and know that each moment of progress is a win.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to create a happier, more fulfilling life, SimplyMidori is here to guide you. Whether you’re starting small or looking to make bigger changes, you’re not alone.
Your journey to happiness starts today—one step at a time.
What’s the first goal you’ll focus on? Write it down, take action, and watch how the small steps lead to lasting joy.
