Revered philosopher Hafiz has a poem of two bears sitting on a vista watching the sun go down and feeling grateful for life. A thought-provoking conversation turned to the topic of fame. “Did you hear about Rustam? He has become famous and travels from city to city in a golden cage. He performs to hundreds of people who laugh and applaud.” The other bear thought for a few seconds…then started weeping.

Following a compelling, well-trodden path by seemingly happy and successful people, doesn’t necessarily deliver what you imagined.

I’ve found (after coaching hundreds of people) that what people really want is connecting with loved ones, being healthy, and contributing value at work, while enjoying leisure and well-being. The question is, “How directly do your 2013 goals and desires relate to what you really want in the end?”

The story of the bear in the golden cage can inspire you to look more closely at your desires and the results. Do fame and riches bring a better life than that of the bears sitting on a vista, enjoying the sunset? Is the caged bear blind to the costs and limitations of such a life? Is it possible to be more successful because of work-life balance? We all draw the line in different places. Where are you drawing the line between over doing it and balance? Here are some questions to help you think it through:

What are my goals and desires for 2013?
Why? What would I experience if I accomplished that?
Will it bring me what I value most?
Am I pushing myself too hard or promising too much?
What are the costs of doing that?
Do the costs exceed the benefits?
Are they even necessary for the benefits?
What do I really, really want?
Am I aligned with the most important thing?

Alignment with what’s most important brings fulfillment. Course corrections are wise. Enjoy the journey, and give me a shout if you want a partner to help navigate this territory for a bit.

Be well.