How To Stop Setting Outcome-Goals and Start Setting Action-Based Goals
Updated: Sep 13
Hi Friends,
I noticed a trend holding my clients, friends, and myself back. It’s preventing us from living the life we dream of. It’s stopping us from becoming the person we know we can be.
We know what we want to achieve:
A healthier lifestyle
Less procrastination
Better time management
And while we have honest intentions to reach these goals, we don’t. Weeks, months, even years go by, and nothing changes. Another failure.
It’s defeating and creates shame.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when setting goals is focusing on the outcome.
What if, instead of focusing on the outcome, you focused on action?
Today, I will help you shift from outcome-based goals to action-based goals.
What are Outcome-Based Goals?
Outcome-based goals focus on achieving a specific result. Our brains naturally set goals this way.
Here’s a common example of an outcome-based goal: “I will get a new job by the end of the year.”
While well-intentioned, this goal sets them up for failure. They could have the best resume and ace the interview, but the job might go to someone else.
That would feel terrible, right?
This is why outcome-based goals don't work. The outcome is not within our control.
But what if the goal wasn’t about getting a job?
What if it focused on being someone who actively pursues new employment opportunities?
Examples of outcome-based goals
Other common outcome-based goals look like:
I will lose 20 pounds.
I will procrastinate less.
I will make $100,000 in one year.
None of these goals are within our control.
Instead of focusing on the outcome, let’s focus on action.
What are Action-Based Goals?
Action-based goals set us up for success. They are motivating and within our control. We decide if we take the step forward. Not someone else.
Instead of setting a goal to get a new job, you can write: Three times per week, I will invest time in my job search.
This is action-based!
You can control the steps you take because you control how you spend your time.
Whether or not you get the job doesn't matter. What's important is that you follow through on your commitment to yourself.
Do Goals vs. Don't Goals
Another common mistake is goals focused on “don’t” behaviors.
I won’t watch Netflix before going to the gym.
Don’t eat dessert during the week.
Don’t spend time on my phone.
No one likes being told what not to do. Instead, write action-based “do” goals.
“Do” goals focus on positive behavior change. This is naturally motivating, making it easier to reach the goal.
❌ I won’t watch Netflix before going to the gym
✅ I will watch Netflix after working out
❌ Don’t eat dessert during the week
✅ I will eat vegetables with every dinner
❌ Don’t spend time on my phone
✅ I will charge my phone outside of my bedroom
Do you see the difference?
How Do You Write Action-Based “Do” Goals?
A few weeks ago, I caught myself setting an outcome-based goal: I will get 100 downloads on my upcoming, no-cost mini-course.
While this would be great, I don't control this outcome.
What I can control is completing and posting the opt-in on our website.
So, I revised my goal: I will create and share a powerful, free mini-course that teaches people how to prioritize their to-dos.
That is something I can commit to. That is something I can control.
How to create your first action-based goal
If you want to transition from an outcome-based goal to an action-based goal, follow these steps:
Consider the steps you must take to reach the outcome.
Identify the final step you envision taking before achieving the outcome.
Set that step as your action-based “do” goal.
What If I Don’t Have Any Goals?
That’s fine! Sometimes, we encounter obstacles when setting goals.
We may have numerous goals floating in our minds or struggle to think of a meaningful one.
If that's the case, start with a brain dump.
Jot down every possible goal you can think of. Dream big and think small; it doesn't matter. You're not committing to anything; you're just generating ideas.
When you’re done, identify one meaningful goal that aligns with your values.
Check out our Goal Setting Framework if you're looking for a structured way to conduct this brain dump.
Now, It’s Your Turn
If you’re sick of setting goals and never making progress, I have a challenge for you: write an action-based goal to accomplish this week.
Keep it small and be realistic.
When you’re done, email me your revised or newly set action-based “do” goal.
And remember, it's not about the outcome; it's about your actions to get there.
Here’s my action-based “do” goal for the week:
I will write 5 LinkedIn posts and 5 Tweets by noon on Friday.
Let’s do this! 💪
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About the Author
Eric Kaufmann, M.Ed is a Professional Educational Therapist and Certified Executive Function Coach. He is the Co-founder of UpSkill Specialists, an online adult executive function coaching company designed to guide adults in overcoming disorganization, procrastination, and productivity roadblocks so they can unlock their potential. Eric is also the founder of Elevate Learning Solutions, an Educational Therapy practice located in San Clemente, CA, that guides students with neurological differences toward becoming independent and confident students and self-leaders.