Classic goal-setting theory says that you first set a goal, then you make a plan to achieve it and finally you start taking action. Recently, I've begun to question the wisdom of this approach. Now, I'm inclined to believe that, for certain types of efforts, you're better of setting goals in the middle.
When a goal has high uncertainty as to what level is achievable to reach within a particular time-frame, it is better to set specific targets in the middle of the process.
Plan your goals with the variables you do have: overall direction, time-frame, level of effort and strategies.
Uncertain goals should be set in the middle. This will enable you to set the correct challenge level to maximize effort.
Some research shows that for very complex tasks, goal-setting can hinder effectiveness. This is because complex tasks are cognitively demanding in the beginning and can be frustrating because you can't perform adequately. To add on more tasks can impair your performance.
There's two common ways you can approach working on your goals and habits: The first is progressive. This is where you start off easy, but make it a little bit harder each time, until you can eventually do very difficult things, with a lot less effort. The second is consistent.
Progressive. You start off easy, make it a little bit harder each time, until you eventually do very difficult things, with a lot less effort.
Consistent. Do the same...
Progressive habits are about managing growth, while consistent habits are are about managing decline. Progressive habits are less st...
Progressive habits are about managing growth, while consistent habits are are about managing decline. Progressive habits are less stable, but offer higher growth. Consistent habits offer lower growth, but are more stable.
Small, incremental adjustments in difficulty are almost certain to push your level up. The downside with progressive habits is that they are harder to sustain.
Do a search online for any kind of "how to" question, and what do you notice? Most, if not all, of the searches you'll do will lead to answers that explain "what" you should do. Which method you should use, where to do it, what materials, etc.
Too little effort and you may never see results (or too slowly to notice). Too much effort and you may burnout long before any permanent progress has been made.