The Power of Achievement: Why Accomplishment Matters for Well-Being

Welcome back to our PERMA series! We’ve explored Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, and Meaning—now, we arrive at the final pillar: Accomplishment, or Achievement. While the pursuit of achievement is often associated with external success, its role in well-being goes much deeper. Accomplishment fosters personal growth, resilience, and a sense of purpose, making it a fundamental aspect of a fulfilling life.

Join Walden WELL's program director Mark O'Brien, JD MAPP and KC White MAPP as they explore the science of wellbeing and its application to behavioral health work in the fifth and final episode in our five-part series on the PERMA wellbeing framework: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment.

What Is Achievement and Why Does It Matter?

Achievement isn’t just about trophies, promotions, or accolades. It includes personal milestones—learning a new skill, overcoming challenges, or reaching a goal we set for ourselves. Research shows that striving toward and accomplishing goals significantly enhances well-being, providing a sense of competence and fulfillment (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Achieving goals, no matter how big or small, gives us a sense of control over our lives and reinforces our belief in our own abilities.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Achievement

Not all achievements are created equal. Psychologists distinguish between two types:

Intrinsic Achievement

Stemming from personal satisfaction, intrinsic achievements involve mastery, self-improvement, and the pursuit of passions. Examples include completing a marathon for personal growth, mastering a new instrument, or improving one’s fitness purely for self-fulfillment.

Extrinsic Achievement

These achievements are externally validated and include promotions, awards, and public recognition. While external rewards can be motivating, relying solely on them for fulfillment may be less sustainable (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Long-term well-being is best supported by a balance of both intrinsic and extrinsic accomplishments.

The Role of Goal-Setting in Well-Being

A key component of achievement is goal-setting. Goals provide direction and structure, enhancing motivation and self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to succeed (Bandura, 1997). When we set and accomplish goals, we reinforce a positive feedback loop that boosts our confidence and motivates us to strive for more.

Additionally, the pursuit of goals can lead to a state of flow—a highly immersive experience where we become fully engaged in an activity (Csikszentmihalyi, 1990). Flow states are inherently rewarding and contribute to increased happiness and life satisfaction.

Strategies to Foster Achievement

If you’re looking to cultivate a mindset of achievement, here are a few science-backed strategies:

Set SMART Goals

Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Research supports this structured approach for increasing success rates and motivation (Doran, 1981).

Break Goals Down

Large goals can feel overwhelming. Breaking them into smaller, manageable steps increases follow-through and prevents discouragement.

Celebrate Successes 

Acknowledging progress—whether small wins or major milestones—boosts morale and reinforces perseverance.

Seek Feedback and Support

Engaging with mentors, peers, or accountability partners enhances motivation and provides valuable insights along the way.

Cultivate a Growth Mindset

Embracing challenges and learning from setbacks fosters resilience and continuous self-improvement (Dweck, 2006).

Achievement in the Context of Recovery

Achievement plays a particularly powerful role in overcoming adversity. For individuals recovering from substance use disorder (SUD), setting and reaching goals provides structure and a renewed sense of purpose. Research shows that goal-setting can aid recovery by reinforcing positive behaviors, boosting confidence, and fostering long-term success (Miller & Rollnick, 2013).

Additionally, recognizing and celebrating small victories—whether it’s maintaining sobriety for a week or securing stable housing—helps build self-esteem and solidify progress. The same principle applies to other areas of life: embracing our personal achievements strengthens our resilience and propels us forward.

Final Thoughts

Achievement is more than just success—it’s about progress, growth, and the pursuit of meaningful goals. Whether you’re striving for a personal milestone, mastering a new skill, or working toward recovery, every accomplishment adds to your well-being. By setting intentional goals, embracing the journey, and celebrating your progress, you can build a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

What’s one goal you’re working toward right now? How will you celebrate when you achieve it?

Want to learn about Walden WELL's framework for supporting a flourishing, fulfilled, and effective behavioral health workforce? Since you've been learning about the PERMA model for wellbeing, start at the beginning with the W in our WELL framework: Wellbeing.

References

• Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. W.H. Freeman.
• Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.
• Doran, G. T. (1981). There’s a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management’s goals and objectives. Management Review, 70(11), 35-36.
• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.
• Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
• Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68-78.