To Create a Balanced Life Consider 3 Things When Setting Goals: Basic Needs, Desires and Dreams

As you grow, you have the opportunity to provide for yourself and others at two levels. 

The first is a basic survival level. These are needs for food, clothing, shelter, and medical attention, as well as the money to attain these necessities.

The second level involves things you want. 

You do not need that red dress or new Prius, but you may want it!  

Unlike survival needs, which, if unmet, can result in illness or even death, wants can be modified.

You may want a feast, but a steak sandwich may do. You may want a two-week vacation, but a day by the lake may better fit your schedule and budget—and give you the downtime you want.

Then there are the “wants” that some people think of as “abundance” or “havingness.”

Achieving a sense of “simplicity,” living a “sustainable” lifestyle falls into this category for some. For others it is multiple homes and cars and vacations. For yet others abundance includes feeling at peace, being healthy, and having time for family and friends.

Allowing yourself this kind of wealth may or may not involve money. Such abundance may relate to your wealth of knowledge, wisdom, friends, or laughter, or your connection to God, a Higher Being, nature, or beauty. This is where your dreams and desires come into play.  

Be Sure to Check Out These Related Posts:

1. When Goal-Setting to Create a Balanced Life, Put Your Doubts Aside
2. Goal Setting For Conscious Entrepreneurial Couples: Create a Balanced Life Together
3. To Achieve a Balanced Life: Clarify Your Individual Goals 5 Steps to Focus on What You Really Want