Knowing what you want in life is the key to achieving success and happiness.
Without a clear goal, you may feel like you’re drifting aimlessly. However, once you have a clear picture of what you want to achieve, things start to feel more purposeful.
Why Knowing What You Want Is Important
Having a clear goal will guide your decision making and setting priorities. By knowing what you want, you can focus on what really matters and avoid unnecessary distractions.
Singgih Kartono, a designer from Temanggung, Central Java, had a very clear vision when starting the Magno Radio project.
After graduating from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Singgih returned to his hometown with the goal of creating products that support environmental sustainability while elevating local culture. He wanted to create something different, that would not only function as an electronic device but also as a symbol of harmony between modern technology and nature.
With this goal in mind, Singgih began designing the Magno Radio—a radio made from sustainable wood, handcrafted by local craftsmen. His design philosophy is rooted in traditional values and simplicity, with full attention to environmental aspects. At first, his idea was considered too idealistic and many doubted whether the product could succeed in the competitive global market.
However, Singgih remained steadfast in his vision. He believed that a good product should have value beyond just function, namely reflecting ethics and aesthetics that can have a positive impact on the community and the environment. As a result, Magno Radio has successfully penetrated the international market and is widely recognized.
This product has not only won awards at various international design exhibitions, but has also become an example of how products based on local values and sustainability can compete in the global market.
The story of Singgih Kartono with Magno Radio shows that with a clear goal and strong determination, you can create a product or achieve something that is not only commercially successful, but also has a wider positive impact.
How to Find What You Want
Figuring out what you really want in life is a process. There are a few steps you can take to identify your goals and aspirations.
Self Reflection
Take some time to reflect and ask yourself important questions. Questions like “What makes me happy?” or “What activities make me feel energized and fulfilled?” can be a good starting point.
Take your time to really dig into the answers to these questions, without rushing. Try to think not only about things you might enjoy, but also about what gives your life meaning and purpose.
This process may take a few days or even weeks, but this deep self-reflection will help you gain insight into what is truly important to you.
Visualization Techniques
Visualization is a technique where you imagine yourself going into the future and seeing yourself achieving a certain goal. Imagine a scenario where you have achieved what you want. How do you feel? What are you doing? Who are you with?
This visualization helps you feel the positive emotions associated with achieving it, which can then clarify what you really want in life. You can do this by sitting in a quiet place, closing your eyes, and letting your mind picture your ideal future. Repeated visualization can strengthen the vision and make it more vivid and real.
Journal Writing and Mind Mapping
Journaling is an effective way to dig deeper into your thoughts and feelings. In your journal, write down what you feel is important, what you want, and why.
Don't be afraid to write down whatever comes into your mind, even if the thoughts and writing are disorganized.
From here, create a mind map that connects the main ideas that emerge from your writing. Mind mapping helps you see connections between ideas and aspirations that you may not have previously noticed. This way, you can get a clearer picture of what you want and how they relate to each other.
By trying these three methods—self-reflection, visualization, and journaling/ mind mapping —you can more easily discover what you really want to do with your life.
Remember that this process doesn’t have to be completed in one go; give yourself enough space and time to explore the possibilities until you find the answer that truly aligns with your heart.
Achieving your goals
Once you know what you want, the next step is to set goals that are SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
SMART goals will guide you in creating a concrete action plan. Discipline in following the plan is essential to ensure you stay on track towards achieving your goals.
Take a look at a more concrete example to understand this SMART concept:
Suppose you are a student who wants to graduate with good grades and get a job in the creative industry.
You can set SMART goals like this:
By setting SMART goals like the example above, you can design a clear action plan and be disciplined in carrying it out. Every step you take will bring you closer to your final goal.
Don't forget to continue to monitor your progress and be flexible if changes need to be made, but remain steadfast in your end vision.
Knowing what you want is the foundation for success. With clarity of purpose, you can direct your energy and resources in the right direction. Now is the time to start identifying and pursuing your goals.
Don't be afraid to dream big, because every great achievement starts with a clear desire.
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