Setting achievable goals for a happier life is one of the main ideas in The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. The concept of goal setting is nothing new, but the author illustrates how it can be applied to one's own life to achieve greater happiness. The key to setting achievable goals is to make them specific, measurable, and time-bound. This means identifying the goal, determining how progress will be measured, and setting a deadline for completion.

Rubin found that setting goals for different areas of her life, such as work, relationships, and personal growth, helped her to focus on what was truly important to her. For example, she set a goal to write a novel, which she had always wanted to do, and broke it down into smaller, more manageable goals, such as writing for an hour every day. By doing so, she was able to make steady progress towards her ultimate goal.

Another important aspect of goal setting is to make sure the goals are achievable. Rubin found that setting unrealistic goals only led to frustration and disappointment. It is important to set goals that are challenging, but also within reach. This may require adjusting expectations or breaking down larger goals into smaller, more achievable ones.

A key takeaway from this key idea is that setting achievable goals can lead to a greater sense of purpose and accomplishment, which in turn can contribute to overall happiness. By identifying what is truly important and taking concrete steps to achieve it, individuals can create a more fulfilling and satisfying life.