Type-A readers may balk at this title, but if you look at it through the lens of a project manager, you’ll realize that reaching a goal is but a milestone, and, by definition, a milestone has no duration. It’s simply a point in time — a moment. And while that moment may bring satisfaction, the feeling is fleeting.

Sustained happiness demands more. Specifically, it requires doing two things differently than other people:

1. Enjoy the journey and the growth that comes from simply moving toward an objective, be it the corner office, a slimmer waistline, or a greater expression of gratitude.
2. When you reach the milestone of goal completion, celebrate and quickly set the next goal. This step is critical because it transforms a series of tactical objectives into a strategic purpose.

A personal mission can be fulfilling in its own right, but walking the path is what leads to true happiness. In the examples above, it can transform a job into a career, turn a calorie count into a healthy lifestyle, and spell the difference between making a donation and making a difference.

The secret is making the goal bigger than yourself. Having a clear-cut “because” or driving “why” can propel you to action. For example:

• I want to obtain career success “because” it will enable me to give my kids the advantages I never had.
• The reason “why” I skip dessert and work out at 5 am is that I’m aware of my family’s history of heart disease, and I want to be around to meet my grandkids.
• I want to donate a meaningful portion of my time and discretionary income to this charity “because” I was once on the receiving end of such kindness and long to return the favor.

Admittedly, this is no easy undertaking and often requires changing how you view goal-setting. Don’t worry; you can still tick off your SMART goals to chase the basics, but if you want something that leads to long-term happiness, you’ll have to think bigger. Knowing your because will give you direction, fuel your journey, and help you become the person you were meant to be.

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