Goals and Goal Orientation Flashcards
Definition of Goal
Actively desired end-states that guide action
Explain the goal setting theory
Goals with the following properties result in better performance
3 key factors:
1. Goal difficulty
2. Goal congruence
3. Goal specificity
2 Supporting factors:
1. Feedback
2. Goal proximity
Difference between goal and needs
Goals:
Consciously activated expectations we need to satisfy
Needs:
Automatically activated
How does goal difficulty result in better performance?
The more difficult the goal, the greater the goal discrepancy and the greater the drive
How does goal congruence result in better performance?
Congruent goals are those that reflect one’s self-interest, needs, values, etc., and thus they lead to greater goal commitment
How does goal specificity result in better performance
Specific goals draw attention to what needs action, thus reducing ambiguity and variability in performance
How does feedback result in better performance?
Negative feedback:
Can create a stronger drive
Positive feedback:
While it reduces drive, people still show positive motivational responses due to self-efficacy, emotions, and goal commitment
How does goal proximity result in better performance?
Proximal goals are usually more specific and create opportunities for more frequent feedback
Caveats regarding external goal-setting
- Goal setting works better on boring and extrinsically motivated tasks
- Overuse of goals can feel controlling and reduce intrinsic motivation
- Attaching rewards to easier goals increases the effect of self-efficacy on goals but reduces performance for goals perceived as difficult
Which goal should you pursue if there are two active goals
The brain may divert a bit of effort to thinking about difficult goal even when doing the easy work, so you should work on difficult work first
What is OKR system?
Stands for Objectives & Key Responsibilities; Team or organizational level goal setting framework
Meaning of objectives & key responsibilities
Objectives: Tangible and unambiguous goals
Key Responsibilities: Exhaustive set of quantifiable milestone which can be scored and evidenced
Purpose of OKR system
- Coordinate teams, especially cross-function teams
- Specify how the team should spend their time and energy
- Stretch performance
- Facilitate evaluation and review of team processes
2 types of OKRs
- Committed OKRs
- Aspirational OKRs
Explain committed OKRs
Objectives that the team agrees to adjust schedules and input resources to ensure its success
