To me that is the ultimate difference between the two.
Fulfillment is more of a holistic concept and an abstract consideration. It is something that we feel deep within ourselves that has a true, real meaning. It may not always be obvious in a given moment, but when we are aware of the feeling of fulfillment, it is an incredible experience.
Example: Have you ever gone for a run. Your goal (that which you want to achieve) is to get to the top of the peak, only to stare down over the horizon, while your heart is beating, your skin all sweaty, your lungs gasping for air and once you have a minute to relax you feel the achievement of having reached the top. Then you look over the horizon (landscape) only to feel all the pressure, all those things that clutter our lives, at least for the blink of an eye, gone. That moment where you are grateful for what you have and where you are. That’s fulfillment.
Nonetheless, during this conversation I was challenged to really define what fulfillment is in my life. It made me realize things that have not been fulfilling. The things I simply do because (perhaps) I need to execute on them. Those are the moments where I approach those that matter in my life, my future spouse for the most part, my mentors and family, closest friends and bounce off thoughts to reflect on that achievement vs. fulfillment.
I have come to learn that there are a lot of things in my life that give me immense fulfillment:
- Coming home from work to a loving, caring to-be spouse and pets and losing myself in their presence. Having intimate conversations and reflecting on life.
- Those moments when, after biking, running, hiking and so forth, taking the time to overlook the landscape (as described above) and losing myself in God’s beautifully created scenery and accepting life as it is. Beautiful.
- Travelling and experiencing other cultures. This is a privilege most of us take for granted, but has to be one of the most fulfilling aspects in life.
- etc…
When I talk about fulfillment, to me it isn’t just one single thing. It is a combination of several things.
What fulfills you? How do you separate achievement from fulfillment?
