"For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end."

Becoming isn't a destination. It's not about finally getting to a place where you feel you've made it or achieved the ultimate goal. It's more about the journey, the continuous movement forward, evolving, and striving for a better version of yourself. There's no finish line.

This idea was articulated by Michelle Obama in her memoir "Becoming." She was reflecting on her life journey—from a kid in Chicago to the First Lady of the United States. It was a way to emphasize that growth doesn't stop; we keep learning and improving throughout our lives.

Imagine you're training for a marathon. You might initially think the goal is just to finish the race. But as you start training, you realize it's not just about race day. It's about the early morning runs when you'd rather stay in bed, the discipline to eat right, the mental toughness you develop. You’re becoming stronger, more resilient, and more disciplined. The race is just a milestone, not the end.

So, how do you apply this? First, embrace the idea that life is a series of phases and stages, not a single goalpost. Set goals, sure, but don't let them be the only measure of your success. Appreciate the small wins and the lessons along the way. Be open to change because sometimes the path to your goal isn't straight and that's okay.

For instance, think about a friend who decided to switch careers. They went back to school in their thirties to study something completely different. The goal wasn't just to get a new degree, but to grow and find fulfillment in their work life. They faced challenges—juggling studies, work, and family—but each step added to their growth. It's about the transformation, not just the end result.

Or imagine you're trying to become healthier. It's not just about hitting a target weight or running a certain distance. It's about developing habits that sustain you, learning what your body needs, and becoming someone who values and takes care of their well-being. The journey itself brings you growth.

So, next time you set a goal, think of it as part of a bigger picture. Enjoy the process, learn from it, and recognize that each effort contributes to your evolution. Life isn't a straight line from point A to point B. It's more like a winding road with lots of interesting stops along the way. Keep moving forward and cherish the journey.