What if we run out of goals?

30/06/2025 40 min Episodio 303
What if we run out of goals?

Listen "What if we run out of goals?"

Episode Synopsis


In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will talk about what happens when you hit all your big goals and realize there might not be any more mountains left to climb. They discuss the complex feelings and identity crises that can emerge when success is achieved, and reflect on how to find new meaning and satisfaction beyond traditional goal-setting. The conversation touches on personal anecdotes, the concept of enjoying the process, and how to appreciate the journey in a fulfilling way.Resources:Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/community/startup-therapyWebsitehttps://www.startups.com/beginLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/startups-co/Join our Network of Top Founders Wil Schroterhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wilschroter/Ryan Rutanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rutan/What to listen for:00:27 The Identity Crisis of Achieving Goals01:05 Personal Reflections on Goal Setting02:25 The Evolution of Goals Over Time04:14 The Reality of Achieving Big Goals07:04 The Trap of Sensationalizing Goals10:58 The Diminishing Returns of Goal Achievement19:06 The Two Paths of Goal Setting: Pleasure vs. Pain20:40 Understanding Pain and Relief21:42 The Myth of Success Equals Happiness22:32 Existential Goals and Realizations23:31 The Challenge of Finding Fulfillment25:23 Enjoying the Journey vs. The Destination29:12 Reevaluating Ambitions and Goals33:11 Building for the Sake of Creation36:59 Infinite Games and Lifelong Pursuits