The Walk - Why Goals Aren’t Everything (And What Matters More)

A few days ago, I went for a long walk. No phone. No recorder. Just me and the quiet of the woods.That’s unusual for me. Normally, I’m always recording something — podcast episodes, course materials, you name it. But that day, I needed to step back.Why? Because I was burning myself out. Trying to keep up with my own routines, like cranking out five podcast episodes a week, just because I set that standard for myself. It’s great to have goals, but the constant push to achieve them was making me feel like a machine.Here's what I’ve started to realize:☑ It’s not about output. It’s about effort. ↳ Pushing yourself to hit a goal often leads to burnout. ↳ Focusing on consistent effort, no matter how small, brings progress.☑ Curiosity over judgment. ↳ Instead of berating yourself for not meeting expectations, ask: Why couldn't I? ↳ This simple, curious question unlocks real solutions.☑ You don’t have to be perfect. ↳ Embrace where you are today. ↳ Stop letting your worth depend on measurable results.☑ Find peace in the journey, not the outcome. ↳ Happiness doesn’t magically appear at the end of the road. ↳ It starts by embracing where you are right now.This Lent, I’m trying something different: Instead of rigid rules and unrealistic goals, I’m focusing on the journey itself. Taking small steps. Allowing myself to be human.What helps you find balance when life gets overwhelming? Get full access to Father Roderick at fatherroderick.substack.com/subscribe