As a kid, I was pretty bad at setting goals.

Growing up in the 90s in a council housing estate in a post-Soviet country, I had no good examples to follow.

My horizons were limited, and peaking beyond the self-imposed walls felt impossible.

I had yet to decide what I wanted.

But I was sure of what I didn't want.

I didn't want a 9-5 corporate office job.

I didn't want to wear a suit and work under the watchful eye of a boss.

I didn't want to sell drugs or steal cars.

And I didn't want to grow a big belly like most of the older adults around me.

These anti-goals were guiding principles when I had to make important life decisions: going to sports university, working at the gym, and moving to Scotland.

These decisions led to actions that played a massive role in shaping the person I am today.

In other words, by focusing on what I didn't want, I could identify what was truly important to me and worth pursuing.

This allowed me to make decisions aligned with my values and led to a more fulfilling life.

So if you're feeling stuck and without perspective, write down everything you don't like in your life now.

And then, use those anti-goals, one by one, as a guide towards a life that truly aligns with who you are.

Not Your Life Coach :)

Leszek