Life Goals: What Matters, Really? | Niamh Pollington

Alright, Anonymous, let’s talk about life goals. I know some of you probably think I’m just another self-obsessed law student with my nose buried in textbooks and a permanent scowl on my face. But honestly, I’ve always believed that having clear goals is what sets the winners apart from the losers. For me, becoming a successful lawyer isn’t just a career aspiration – it’s my entire identity. And yes, maybe that does make me a bit one-dimensional to some people, but I’d rather be focused than wandering aimlessly through life. So, what are your goals? Are they as ambitious as mine? Or are you still trying to figure it all out?

I remember when I first started university, everyone was going on about ‘finding themselves’ and ‘following their passion.’ And yeah, that sounds lovely on paper. But let’s get real – in this world, if you want to make it big, you need a solid plan. My plan is simple: ace my law degree, secure a top job at a prestigious firm, and eventually become a partner. It’s not glamorous, but it’s concrete. And honestly? I feel sorry for those who don’t have something equally specific to work towards. Life’s too short to be drifting through it without purpose. So, have you got your plan mapped out yet? Or are you still waiting for some epiphany to hit you like a ton of bricks?

Of course, there are those who’ll tell you that life is about more than just career goals. They’ll wax poetic about relationships, personal growth, and ‘experiencing the world.’ And don’t get me wrong – those things have their place. But at the end of the day, when you’re lying on your deathbed (or whatever dramatic end-of-life scenario you prefer), are you going to be thinking about that gap year you took or the time you climbed Mount Everest? Or are you going to wish you’d worked harder and achieved more? For me, it’s about making a real impact through my work. If along the way I manage to have a few meaningful relationships or squeeze in some travel, great. But those aren’t my priorities. So, Anonymous, what do you think? Am I missing out on some grand secret of life by being so focused on my goals? Or am I just ahead of the curve?