The two are different. Very different. A big goal is not the same as a vision.
“Being a millionaire” is a goal. The idea of “space tourism and building a city on Mars” is a vision.
“Ensuring your kid gets admitted to the top university” is a goal. “Having a family where everyone stands by each other” is a vision.
Vision is the destination one visualises and wants to achieve, the path to which is often unclear. As you take each step, the next step becomes clear as long as you stay focused on your vision.
A vision is limitless and purposeful. It is aligned with your deepest values and priorities.
Goals, on the other hand, are specific targets and are more realistic. Something more tangible.
Although it’s common for people to have a set of goals in life, vision gets a lot less focus. That’s true both in the professional and personal context.
Goals without a vision can make you directionless. It’s like driving on a highway at 100 km/h for hours without knowing the destination. Which direction should you drive in?
Once you have visualised the destination, setting individual goals to achieve it can be deeply satisfying.