Process and goal setting
Specific, controllable goals for execution and behaviour instead of outcome goals like wins or scoring rates.
Intended for
Direct attention and motivation towards what is within one's control.
Who does the evidence apply to?
Very broad evidence base across sport, school, and work.
Boundaries
Too many or too rigid goals increase pressure. Outcome goals alone often worsen experience and execution.
In athlete speak
You can't decide if you score. You can decide how you approach the shot.
Accessible doesn't mean inaccurate: We simplify the language, not the message.
For Parents
What we know
Specific, challenging process goals improve performance and endurance.
What we don't know
How many goals are sensible at the same time.
What that means in practice
After the game, ask about processes, not statistics.
Sources
- Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation. American Psychologist.Specialist LiteraturePopulation: Cross-cutting, incl. SportDOI 10.1037/0003-066X.57.9.705
- Kyllo, L. B., & Landers, D. M. (1995). Goal setting in sport and exercise: A research synthesis to resolve the controversy. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology.Meta-AnalysisPopulation: Sporting SamplesDOI 10.1123/jsep.17.2.117
Content on this method
Missed a 7-metre throw
Open shot, everyone watches, ball doesn't go in.
Shot missed
Open shot, goes wide or to the goalkeeper.
Technical error
Steps, double dribble, court violation – ball lost without opponent pressure.
Misplaced pass
The pass doesn't connect – counter-attack for the opponent.
Defensive errors
Stepped out too late, gap open, opponent through.
Two-minute suspension
You're on the bench, your team is playing short-handed.
Sitting on the bench
The game is on, you're sitting and waiting.
Little game time
Only playing for short periods over weeks.
These contents are knowledge and training offerings from sport psychology. They do not replace psychotherapy, medical treatment, or professional sport psychological support.