3 Reasons to Ditch Outcome Goals for Input Goals

This year, I’m setting input goals rather than outcome goals. What does that mean? Well, it’s probably best explained by offering a simple example.

An outcome goal could sound something like, “I’m going to lose 30 pounds this year”. Whereas, an input goal might be, “I’m going to wake up early and exercise 5 times a week”.

Here’s why I’m focusing on my input rather than my output.

Reason #1

We have complete control over how much energy we invest into something, but we don’t always have control over the exact return on that investment.

Reason #2

Input goals make action and forward movement a lifestyle. Outcome goals have us constantly striving toward an end that can feel worlds away.

Reason #3

With input goals, we get micro-affirmations all along the way that we’re still on course. With outcome goals, only the end of the story can tell us if we hit our mark or not.

• • •

A tree doesn’t announce its target number of fruit before its season. It just stays true to its purpose and in season, it will be fruitful.

My challenge to you, especially if you’ve already written down goals, is to reassess and turn them into input goals that reinforce your direction and purpose.

Here’s what some of my input goals look like this year:

INSTEAD OF :: Reading the Bible through in one year

I WANT TO :: Invest 4 mornings a week to deep study of the Word.

• • •

INSTEAD OF :: Publishing a certain amount of articles this year . . .

I WANT TO :: Dedicate 3 mornings a week to writing.

• • •

INSTEAD OF :: Setting a goal for weight, muscle mass, or looks . . .

I WANT TO :: Commit to exercising 4 days a week.

• • •

INSTEAD OF :: Reading a certain number of books this year . . .

I WANT TO :: Spend 4 nights a week reading before bed.

• • •

What do your goals look like this year? Was this helpful insight for goal-setting?