We've all seen the familiar hashtag on Instagram and Twitter. Whether attached to a photo or written statement, #goals has become the new favorite for the social media generation. Whatever post or tweet #goals is attached to is understood as something most want to accomplish. This idea is simple enough and abides to the origin of the word goals, which refers to "the object of a person's ambition or effort; an aim or desired result". Alright, we all knew this. A goal is an ambition, so what's the problem with using the hashtag?
We are forgetting what a true goal is.
One of the common "goals" on social media are relationship goals. These "goals" will usually be attributed to a photo of a young couple doing something adventurous, like snorkeling. Or even something simple, like laying in bed and watching Netflix. Most of these "goals" really boil down to wanting to be with someone who is affectionate. So, basically the underlying ambition is to have a relationship with someone that is loving and healthy. This is not a "goal," it is a common standard that everyone should seek. A goal is something you have to work to achieve. Eating pizza on the couch with someone is not that hard to do (trust me).
There are plenty of other uses of #goals that devalue what a true goal is. Many Twitter users will post photos of models or celebrities with the hashtag, which subtly goes along the lines of body shaming. It is not possible to look exactly like someone else. So by stating that your "goal" is to have Ruby Rose's face, you are setting yourself up for constant disappointment with your own appearance. Our real goals should not be to look like someone else, that is simply not plausible. If it were, don't you think we'd all look like Beyoncé?
There are, of course, some positive uses of this hashtag. Many people will post pictures of mansions or fancy cars with #goals. Others will post pictures of someone who is fit and healthy with #goals. These are all great goals, if you are being serious about them. Use #goals for a large house, so that it serves as a constant reminder that you will need to work hard to afford it. Use #goals attached to a picture of a person with abs, so you'll never forget that you will need to exercise and eat healthy to get fit.
The problem with #goals is that we are not using it seriously. Your goal should be to better yourself and achieve your dreams, not to hold hands with someone or eat a super cheesy pizza. We must remember to separate our aspirations from our superficial wants. Working hard, being healthy and being happy; now that's #goals.
