More Than Achievement: Why Growth Matters Most

In counseling work, one of the most common pattern I see is, people linking their self worth or “happiness” to achievements.

But when we dig deeper, it’s more about personal growth rather than the objective achievements themselves. Achievements act like a kind of “proxy” for their personal growth journey. 

So for some who may have objectively achieved a lot, but if those achievements are stagnating or regressing, they can be deeply unhappy.

Whereas for some who may have achieved much less, but are growing or progressing, they can be very content and happy.

Growth or moving towards/progressing towards their values is a key strategy for better mental health.

I wonder if you can relate or see it in the people you are caring for.