Without an objective, what are we seeking to achieve?

If there is no purpose or end game, then what is the objective?

Although I firmly believe that the process, as opposed to the achievement itself, is one of the most important aspects of growth and a significant contributing factor in the search for happiness, it is the fixed objective in which we focus our minds and direct our resources and energy towards achieving.

I was kicking a ball around with my son the other day, and he lost interest in the game fairly quickly. Part of my mind was confused about why he would not be invested in the enjoyment of kicking a ball around with his dad. Another part of my mind dissected it a bit and realised that although kicking a ball back and forth a few times is enjoyable, if the objective or end goal is not understood, then what creates the aspiration in trying to continue learning a skill?

Without having an objective around why a skill is developed, whether it's a sport, job, game, or hobby, if there is no objective or hierarchical structure in which you can achieve greatness by winning, being the best or creating something at a certain level, then why would someone choose to devote themselves to pursuing said objective?

Although the process and consistent purpose of improvement are fundamental aspects in the search for happiness, there must be an objective—a carrot you dangle in front of your face, a distant goal or benchmark that you are always striving to attain. Whether you choose to bite that carrot when you reach it or choose to push it a little bit further out, that's up to you. But creating that carrot and understanding what it means is a vital aspect in growing towards it.

Shoot for the moon and if you miss, you will fall amongst the stars

Thanks,

Dean