Goal setting works, but it only benefits people when done correctly. If you want to get better at running, do not just set a goal to run better. Instead decide to be able to run 4 miles continuously at the end of six weeks training. Specific, measurable, realistic and timely goals help people wanting to change their life or maximize their potential. Sport psychologists D. Burton and S. Naylor reviewed 56 different goal-setting research studies to see if goal setting was beneficial. Their review showed almost 80 percent of the studies had positive results, indicating that goal setting is beneficial in a number of areas.
Increase Motivation
Goals increase motivation. Once you set a specific objective it is easier to motivate yourself to do the work necessary for reaching it. For example, setting a specific goal to lose 5 lbs. in one month is likely to help motivate someone accomplish this task. This goal is better than a more general goal such as simply losing weight. Specifying a measurable goal and setting the time table to accomplish it will help keep motivation high because it keeps the person accountable. It is harder to put things off or not follow through when there is a goal to work toward. Increased motivation is necessary to ensure people stay persistent. Difficult days will always happen but goals increase motivation and help people persist despite the challenge of a late day at work or readily available fast food.
Measure Progress
Setting a goal immediately provides us with a way to evaluate our efforts. Effective goals have specific time tables. If someone sets the goal to run a 10-minute mile after four weeks of running, he will be able to effectively measure their progress and know where they stand, both while they work toward their goal and at the end of the set time period. Measuring progress helps keep people on track and reaching a goal provides reinforcement for our actions.
Take Control
Setting goals benefit people because it is an action. Making a decision, developing a plan, and then working toward it can give you a greater sense of control over your life. Once you set a goal you are asserting your ability to change your life and exerting control in the things that matter to you.
Set Priorities and Make Decisions Easier
Making decisions without clear priorities can cause anxiety. Setting a goal clearly defines what is important to you. Psychologist Richard O'Connor, Ph.D., writes that setting goals simplifies our day-to-day decision-making process and allows us to enjoy living in the present. With a goal set people can easily make decisions and choices that work toward accomplishing their objectives.
References
- "The Jekyll/Hyde nature of goals: Revisiting and updating goal-setting in sport" in "Advances in sport psychology"; D. Burton & S Naylor; (2002)
- World of Psychology: Can Doctors Be Happy? Part 2
- American Council on Exercise: Reaching Your Goals the Smart Way
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