Goal Setting

"Goals Gone Wild: The Systematic Side Effects of Over-Prescribing Goal Setting" is a research paper written by Lisa D. Ordonez and her colleagues. The paper discusses the potential negative consequences of excessive goal setting and highlights key takeaways that should be considered when setting goals.

The authors argue that while goal setting is widely believed to enhance motivation and performance, it can sometimes lead to unintended and counterproductive outcomes. They refer to this phenomenon as "goal setting gone wild" and describe several systematic side effects that can arise from over-prescribing goal setting.

One key takeaway highlighted in the paper is the potential for goal fixation. When individuals become overly focused on achieving a specific goal, they may neglect other important aspects of their work or personal life. This narrow focus can limit creativity, decrease intrinsic motivation, and even lead to unethical behavior as people prioritize the goal at all costs.

Another important consideration is the risk of creating a competitive climate. When goals are set for individuals or teams in a competitive manner, it can foster a cutthroat environment where people may resort to unethical practices or sabotage each other's efforts. This can undermine teamwork and collaboration, ultimately harming overall organizational performance.

The paper also emphasizes the potential for goal distortion. As people strive to meet targets, they may engage in short-term thinking, sacrificing long-term benefits for immediate gains. This can lead to suboptimal decision-making and a failure to address complex or systemic issues adequately.

Additionally, the authors highlight the potential for excessive risk-taking when goals are set without considering potential risks and unintended consequences. Employees may prioritize achieving their goals without fully evaluating the potential negative outcomes or implications of their actions.

To mitigate the negative effects of goal setting, the paper suggests several key takeaways: 

1. Goals should be aligned with broader organizational values and objectives, ensuring they contribute to the organization's long-term success. 

2. There should be a balance between challenging goals and the well-being of individuals and teams, promoting a healthy work-life balance and avoiding burnout. 

3. Goals should be set collaboratively, involving input from various stakeholders to increase buy-in and create a sense of ownership. 

4. Periodic reassessment and adjustment of goals are crucial to ensure they remain relevant and adaptive to changing circumstances.

By considering these factors, organizations can strike a balance that promotes motivation, performance, and overall well-being while avoiding the negative consequences associated with goal setting gone wild.

-Brian