Performance and outcome goals
A performance goal helps the athlete to focus on an aspect of performance that they are in total control of. A performance goal might be a 200 m sprinter trying to beat their personal best or a hockey midfielder trying to score their highest level in the multi-stage fitness test. Performance goals allow the athlete to focus in on details of the performance, not just winning and losing.
An outcome goal helps the performer to focus on the big picture of what they are trying to achieve. A youth rugby player may aim to be selected for a regional team before the end of the season. A pole vaulter may aim to finish in first place at the major championship.
Combining goals
Both performance and outcome goals have their weaknesses and are only truly effective when they are used in combination. Below is an example of how a tennis player may combine performance and outcome goals to good effect during a major championship.
Performance goals:
- to achieve a first serve percentage of over 70% in all matches
- to hit over 50% of backhands with topspin pushing the opponents deeper in the court
Outcome goals:
- to reach a minimum of the third round of the tournament
- to beat at least one player seeded higher than themselves
These goals combine well to help the performer focus on crucial aspects of performance while helping the athlete to be motivated by the outcome that they crave.
