The Goal-Setting Paradox

Goal-setting paradox.

Elite athletes often feel less satisfied after achieving higher goals due to post-achievement deflation.

Stages of the Goal-Setting Paradox

1. Pre-achievement – high motivation, focus, arousal.

2. 2. Achievement – brief satisfaction.

3. 3. Post-achievement – mood drop, emotional deflation, pressure for next performance.

Open goals.

Non-specific, exploratory, open-ended, independent of past performance.

Closed goals.

Tied to a specific outcome.

Clutch state.

Superior performance under pressure in critical moments.

Flow state.

Uninterrupted focus, complete absorption, intrinsic reward, and enjoyment.

“Do your best” goals.

Non-specific instructions used when specifics unclear or exploring new skills.

Learning-focused goals.

Emphasise skill development, technique refinement, controllable factors.

Outcome goals.

Tied to winning, ranking, or defeating opponents

Define goal disengagement.

Withdrawing effort and commitment from an unattainable goal

• E.g. an injured runner abandoning marathon training to prevent further damage

Define goal re-engagement

Identifying alternative approaches, related but different goals, or developing entirely new objectives

• E.g.  the same runner focusing on cross-training and technique whilst recovering

Micro-cycle = process goals

Weekly goals emphasising technique and controllable factors.

Meso-cycle = performance goals

Monthly goals tracking measurable improvements.

Macro-cycle = outcome goals

Competition goals to maintain long-term motivation.

Why is does effective periodisation balance needed?

Athlete control with capability.