A Spiritual “Paradox”: Setting Goals or Going With the Flow?

When we’re on a path of conscious living, we may come across what feels like a real dilemma when we need to make decisions or plans. On the one hand, we’ve learned that we should let go and trust the intelligence of life to lead us. On the other hand, we’ve also learned about the power of intention in order to create the life we want.

Sometimes, I encounter this tension between leading and ‘being led’, both in my own life and in the work I do as a holistic counsellor. But when understood on a deeper level, there is no contradiction in this apparent paradox.

Aligning with Life’s Natural Rhythm

🌊 There is a quiet power in releasing resistance. It’s not about being passive, but about aligning with something greater than our individual will. Joseph Campbell expressed this beautifully when he said, “The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the universe, to match your nature with Nature.” He spoke of following one’s “bliss” as a way of attuning ourselves to life’s deeper callings.

🌀 Byron Katie teaches that suffering arises from resisting reality. Through her method, “The Work," she encourages us to question our thoughts and beliefs so that we get to the truth behind the particular situation, leading often to the acceptance of ‘what is’. I’ve used this process many times and it’s never failed me to get out of a mental rut.

💫 Rupert Spira speaks of the "flow state" as our natural condition. He suggests that by resting in our true being, we naturally enter a state of flow, where actions arise effortlessly and harmoniously.

Working with these teachings has helped me realise that much of what shapes us comes from within. I’ve found that when I am in receptive mode — when I stop pushing — something meaningful begins to emerge. It’s not always what I expected, but it is often more real.

The Power of Intention

At the same time, I have also seen how important clarity and intention can be. Setting goals can bring focus and direction, especially when they emerge from an inner sense of alignment rather than fear or lack.

🎯 Tony Robbins teaches that defining what you want, understanding why you want it, and developing a plan are crucial steps toward achieving a desired outcome.

🌸 Louise Hay advocated for the power of affirmations and positive thinking in achieving goals. However, she stressed that it isn’t just about “getting things” — it’s about healing the parts of us that don’t yet believe we deserve to thrive.

Both these teachers have been deeply influential as well, and Louise’s reminder that self-love is the starting point has always stayed with me.

Integrating Both Approaches: A Harmonious Path

What I’ve come to see is that it isn’t about a choice between two opposites. We can integrate goal setting with spiritual principles by setting "soul-worthy goals" that align with one’s higher self and purpose. By combining intention with detachment from the outcome we can manifest desires while remaining in harmony with the universe.

📝 In my next post, I’ll show you some practical ways for setting goals and connecting with your inner wisdom when seeking clarity or direction. And if you're curious about Byron Katie’s method, here’s my earlier blog where I explain it in more detail and share helpful links 👉 Questioning stressful beliefs the Byron Katie way.

✨ Whether you’re seeking clarity around your goals or wanting to connect more deeply with your inner guidance, I’m here to support you. Through holistic counselling, we can explore what truly matters to you. Sessions are available online or in-person.