As the year comes to a close, many people set new goals—whether it’s getting fitter, improving their relationships, advancing their careers, or learning a new skill.
But why do we so often fail to achieve the goals we set for ourselves? I have been asking myself this question a lot, especially now that I am taking stock of my achievements for this year.
Where did I reach my goals? Where did I fail?
I discovered that the answer often lies in not distinguishing between goals and intentions.
This is where the principle of Intentional Action Control becomes crucial.
The Difference Between Goals and Intentions
Setting a goal is a motivational process: it defines what you want to achieve. For example: “I want to pass an exam” or “I want to acquire new clients.” However, setting a goal alone is rarely enough to ensure success.
Intentions, or plans, on the other hand, are volitional processes that clearly outline how and when something will be done. They follow a “If-then” structure, such as:
- “If I get home after work, I’ll sit down and study.”
- “If I’m at my desk at 9 a.m., I’ll spend two hours on client outreach.”
While goals provide direction, intentions create actionable steps tied to specific situations. This distinction is key to turning intentions into actions.
Self-Regulation: The Key to Achieving Goals
Another critical factor in achieving goals is self-regulation. Goals often fail due to internal and external obstacles. Overcoming these requires clear strategies. Research by Gollwitzer (1993, 1999) highlighted that goal achievement depends on addressing such challenges head-on.
A strong plan not only maps out the steps for achieving a goal but also anticipates potential obstacles:
- “If I struggle to find time to study, I’ll adjust my evening routine.”
- “If a potential client doesn’t respond, I’ll follow up a week later.”
From Motivation to Commitment
The combination of goals and intentions makes all the difference. Goals build on motivation—they spark the desire to achieve something. Intentions and plans, however, lead to commitment—the willingness to take action despite challenges.
Motivation alone isn’t enough to succeed. Only when clear goals are paired with specific, actionable plans can intentions translate into reality.
Conclusion: Motivation is not enough
As you prepare for the coming year, don’t just think about what you want to achieve but also how you’ll make it happen. By linking your goals to concrete “If-then” plans and proactively addressing potential obstacles, you significantly increase your chances of success.
The new year offers a perfect opportunity not only to stay motivated but also to stay committed. Design your intentions, make them specific, and you will see more of your goals become reality!