Why set goals?

Setting goals is crucial for providing direction and structure to your activities, which is especially important in contexts like fitness and personal growth. According to Sal Di Stefano from Mind Pump Podcast, having a goal supports structuring your program and influences how you manage your diet, sleep, and other habits. However, it's essential not to become overly fixated on the goal itself. The fixation can lead to demotivation if the goal is reached or if it proves unattainable 1.

Goals are also valuable because they push you to improve. The process of striving towards a goal helps in developing skills and habits that are beneficial regardless of the outcome. This perspective is shared by Hal Elrod, who suggests that the true purpose of a goal is not merely to achieve it, but to become a better version of yourself through the effort you put into striving towards the goal 2.

Lastly, goals can serve as effective motivators to start and maintain your actions. Setting achievable, short-term goals helps build momentum and self-discipline. By continuously achieving these smaller goals, you are more likely to stay motivated and progress towards larger, long-term goals 3.