Do We Really Know What We Want?

Craving or Clarity?

We spend so much of our lives chasing after things: careers, relationships, experiences, and possessions. We make lists, set goals, and dream big. But now and then, it’s worth pausing to ask: Do I actually want what I think I want?

It’s an unsettling question. Often, what we call “desire” is shaped by external forces, family expectations, cultural norms, and the silent pull of comparison. We might be striving for a promotion because everyone else around us seems to, not because it brings us joy. Or we long for a certain lifestyle because it photographs well, not because it nourishes us.

Sometimes, our wants are outdated. A version of ourselves five or ten years ago made those choices. But do those old ambitions still align with who we are now? Growth isn’t just about pursuing goals; It’s about re-examining them.

Questioning what we want doesn’t mean giving up. It means getting clearer. It’s the difference between running endlessly on a treadmill and walking with purpose toward a destination that truly matters.

So maybe the real question isn’t “What do I want?” but “What feels real to me right now?” When the answer is honest, even small steps in that direction can feel more satisfying than the biggest achievements pursued on autopilot.