Goal Hierarchy Flashcards
What is a goal hierarchy in coaching?
A structured framework that organises goals from abstract, long-term aspirations down to specific, short-term actions.
What are superordinate goals?
Identity-based, long-term goals that reflect core values and provide overall direction.
What are intermediate goals?
Medium-term goals that operationalise superordinate goals within specific life or work domains.
What are subordinate goals?
Specific, short-term, actionable steps that contribute to achieving intermediate and superordinate goals.
How do subordinate goals support coaching outcomes?
They translate broad intentions into measurable actions, enabling progress and accountability.
Why are superordinate goals important in coaching?
They align coaching efforts with a client’s values and identity, enhancing meaning and motivation.
Give an example of a superordinate goal.
“Be a respected and empowering leader.”
Give an example of an intermediate goal.
“Improve my team’s engagement and performance.”
Give an example of a subordinate goal.
“Have fortnightly one-on-one check-ins with each team member.”
What theory supports the use of goal hierarchies in coaching?
Goal-setting theory (Locke & Latham) and action identification theory (Vallacher & Wegner).
What is a goal hierarchy in coaching?
A structure that organises goals into levels: superordinate (long-term/values), intermediate (strategic), and subordinate (specific actions).
What is the main benefit of using goal hierarchies in coaching?
They clarify how specific actions contribute to broader values or long-term goals, increasing motivation and alignment.
How do goal hierarchies enhance motivation?
By connecting short-term tasks to meaningful long-term outcomes, which strengthens intrinsic motivation and persistence.
How do goal hierarchies support prioritisation in coaching?
They help clients identify which goals or actions to focus on first based on their relevance to higher-order goals.
What flexibility do goal hierarchies offer when setbacks occur?
Clients can adapt by identifying alternative lower-level goals that still support the same higher-level intention.
How do goal hierarchies encourage value alignment?
They prompt reflection on what truly matters to the client, ensuring their actions align with personal values.
How can goal hierarchies help with goal conflict?
By making competing goals visible and structured, clients can more easily identify and manage conflicts.
What is a pitfall of over-structuring goals into a hierarchy?
It may stifle creativity, spontaneity, or emotional insight by making the process too analytical.
Why might goal hierarchies give a false sense of clarity?
Clients may construct logical hierarchies that don’t reflect their deeper emotional truth or internal conflicts.
How can goal hierarchies obscure real-world dilemmas?
By oversimplifying the relationships between goals and ignoring tensions or trade-offs.
What mindset risk can arise from focusing too much on superordinate goals?
Clients may fall into a performance mindset and overlook growth, learning, or present-moment experience.
What is ‘paralysis by analysis’ in the context of goal hierarchies?
When clients overthink or over-plan instead of taking action, often due to trying to perfect the goal structure.
How can goal hierarchies lead to values drift?
Clients may pursue inherited or outdated goals that no longer reflect who they are now.
What is goal neglect?
The failure to act on a goal despite knowing and remembering it, often due to distraction, stress, or competing demands.
How can goal hierarchies contribute to goal neglect?
By making high-level goals too abstract or overloading clients with too many low-level tasks.
What coaching strategies can reduce goal neglect?
Use concrete actions, implementation intentions, prioritisation, environmental cues, and regular goal reviews.
