Measurable goals offer progress feedback and finish lines.

An “achievement” goal tells what exactly victory looks like. Where possible, this should be reduced to an incremental number so progress can be tracked—seeing progress is a big motivator. This outcome-orientation guides action to richer possibilities of action, and helps steer away from less effective problem-oriented goals. Habit goals, in contrast, are less measurable.rM2



  1. Brett & Kate McKay, “Podcast #762: Prepare Now to Have Your Best Year Ever,” The Art of Manliness (blog), December 8, 2021, https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/advice/your-best-year-ever/. (See notes.)