Evidence brief · Peer-reviewed · Narrative review of a research program
Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey
Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705-717. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.57.9.705 (opens in a new tab)
Publisher: American Psychological Association
- What the study reported
- Across the research reviewed, specific and challenging goals were associated with higher performance than vague goals such as 'do your best'. Feedback, goal commitment, ability and task complexity were described as conditions that shape this relationship.
- How it informs leadership practice
- Informs the Transfer stage request for a specific, observable commitment with a date and a way to notice progress.
- Limitations
- A review by the theory's originators, not an independent meta-analysis. Very difficult goals on complex tasks can require learning goals instead of outcome goals.
- Conceptual mapping
- Accelerate Leadership Readiness
- Mobilize Human Capability
Editorial interpretation. The study did not examine the H.U.M.A.N. framework.
Used in: Leadership Readiness & Succession
Paraphrased summary. Read the original article via the DOI link for full methods and results.