Goal Setting Goal setting is a powerful psychological health tool. I write this article now because the New Year and associated holidays provide a natural break in life and, for most people, provide a time that is ideal for reflection and resetting. I personally set goals around the turn of the calendar year every year. Setting goals can help a person find purpose in their lives, and purpose might be the most important thing in a person's life for their psychological health and maybe even physical health. This is my opinion, but it is backed by research. For example, here , here , and here . This is not a new idea, and it's been in popular culture for some time. Psychologist Viktor Frankl suggested the same concept in his excellent book, Man's Search for Meaning , as did Pastor Rick Warren in his bestselling book, The Purpose Driven Life . In this article, I will talk about my process for setting goals, some things that are helpful, and some pitfalls to avoid. Where to beg...