Illustration by Aamnah Arshad
Illustration by Aamnah Arshad

You must have seen someone who is always committed to changing themselves. They often boast about their new mindset or habits, yet eventually fail to follow through.

On the other hand, you may have also noticed people who quietly work towards their goals and actually achieve them. There is a clear difference between the two: the latter stays focused on the goal itself, while the former talks more, feels external pressure and gradually loses focus. The key is simple — keep your strategies private and let your results speak for themselves.

Here’s the point: many people think that if they don’t talk about their goals, they might end up on the wrong path. It’s not that you should never discuss your goals; rather, you should choose wisely who you share them with. Share them with people who encourage and protect you, not those who demotivate you. Not everyone deserves to know.

A few people, such as your parents, siblings, or one or two close friends, are often enough to help you stay clear and supported. If your mindset aligns with your goal, research suggests it takes just one day to begin working on it. Being clear is important, but persistence is the real challenge.

To move forward, you can also connect with a professional in your field. They understand the ups and downs and can guide you with experience and clarity. A mentor can help you avoid mistakes, offer useful feedback and protect you from unnecessary discouragement. Seeking advice from the right people is far more effective than discussing your plans with everyone or relying on unqualified opinions.

Moreover, sharing too much can sometimes lead to confusion or self-doubt. You may feel pressured to meet others’ expectations, or constantly explain your progress. People might question your decisions or plant doubts in your mind, which can be discouraging. You may also feel compelled to listen to every strategy they suggest. However, action is the most important part of any strategy. If your actions are right, your results will follow, because actions are the foundation of success.

Your goals may not matter to others as much as they matter to you. So don’t expect everyone to understand or appreciate them. Focus on your aims for yourself — quietly, confidently and without unnecessary explanations.

Published in Dawn, Young World, February 7th, 2026

Opinion

Editorial

Immunity gap
Updated 26 Apr, 2026

Immunity gap

Pakistan’s Big Catch-Up campaign showed progress but also exposed the scale of gaps in routine immunisation.
Danger on repeat
26 Apr, 2026

Danger on repeat

DISASTERS have typically been framed as acts of nature. Of late, they look increasingly like tests of preparedness...
Loose lips
26 Apr, 2026

Loose lips

PAKISTANIS have by now gained something of an international reputation for their gallows humour, but it seems that...
Lebanon truce
Updated 25 Apr, 2026

Lebanon truce

THE fact that the truce between Israel and Lebanon has been extended for three weeks should be welcomed. But there...
Terrorism again
25 Apr, 2026

Terrorism again

THE elimination of 22 terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in Khyber highlights both the scale and ...
Taxing technology
25 Apr, 2026

Taxing technology

THE recent decision by the FBR’s Directorate General of Customs Valuation to increase the ‘assessed value’ of...