Vision vs Goal
Vision and Goal are two terms often confused due to their apparent similarity, but there is a distinction between them. These words should not be used interchangeably. Vision is defined as the ability to think about the future with wisdom or imagination, while the word goal is defined as an aim or desired result. Vision is associated with the meaning of “dream,” while goal is equated with the word “aim.” This is the primary difference between the two words. Through this article, the differences between the two will be further examined.
What is a Vision?
As previously mentioned, the word vision can be defined as the ability to think about the future with wisdom or imagination. It isn’t something close to the individual, but rather a far-off expectation or dream. In history, we hear of great visionaries who had the ability to foresee the future. A vision comes with imagination and wisdom and is an ability to look at the far-off future, not the nearby future.
Now, let us look at some examples of how the word vision can be used in the English language. Observe the two sentences:
– He has a great vision for his country.
– So much is said about the vision of the scientists.
In both sentences, the word vision is understood differently. In fact, it can be said that the word is used in different senses. In the first sentence, it is used in the sense of “dream.” On the other hand, in the second sentence, it is used in the sense of “imagination.” The second sentence would thus mean “so much is said about the imagination of the scientists.” Thus, the word vision is used figuratively too.
What is a Goal?
The word goal is used primarily in the sense of “target” or “aim.” Unlike vision, which is more dream-like, a goal is much more achievable. When an individual wishes to succeed in life, he creates goals that he should achieve to realize his dream. These goals, if smartly defined (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound), can be easily achieved.
As human beings, we all have goals. These can differ from one person to another. For example, while the goal of one individual is to become wealthy, for another, it may be to reach his highest potential academically. Now, let us move on to the usage of the word.
Observe the following sentences:
– He is moving slowly towards his goal.
– Her goal is to set her foot on the moon one day.
In both sentences, you can find that the word goal is used in different senses. In the first sentence, it is used in the sense of a “target,” and the meaning of the first sentence would be “he is moving slowly towards his target.” In the second sentence, it is used in the sense of “aim,” and the meaning of the second sentence would be “her aim is to set her foot on the moon one day.”
The word goal is also used in the game of football. Goals are scored to achieve victory in this sport. This highlights that vision and goal refer to two distinctive words and should not be confused.
Key Takeaways
- Vision is defined as the ability to think about the future with wisdom or imagination, while goal is defined as an aim or desired result.
- A vision is dream-like and focuses on the far-off future, while a goal is more achievable and concentrates on creating a change in the present or nearby future.
- A vision can indicate imagination or wisdom, while a goal denotes an aim or target.
