With mental health issues on the rise, and wellbeing and happiness levels falling, there is an urgent need to understand the inner world of thoughts and emotions better. The role of positive thinking was not well understood, nor which specific emotional states can help or hinder goal success. My research findings highlight the normalcy of experiencing negative emotions such as self-doubt, anxiety, overwhelm and stress during the pursuit of goals. Many participants found solace in the realisation that their thoughts and emotions were shared by others, and they were not alone.