Input Goals
Outcome goals are your desires, but input goals give you the daily plan to execute and that’s where real progress happens.
Some people think goal setting is pointless, while others believe in its power. For those who believe in setting goals, you might see that are usually outcome-based. Even unintentionally, most of us frame goals around results.
“I want to lose ten kilograms.”
“I want to write a book.”
Since goals come from our desires, it’s natural for them to focus on outcomes. But I’ve learned that outcome-based goals often lack the clarity needed for daily action and don’t bring much fulfilment or day-to-day motivation while chasing them.
What you really need is a clear sense of what to do each day. Without that, you either push yourself too hard or do nothing at all.
That’s where input-based goals can make a difference. By translating an outcome goal into an input goal, you create a practical daily plan. We know that can’t control results, but we can always control our effort.
“I will eat 1200 calories a day and exercise for 30 minutes.”
“I will write 2000 words every day.”
With input goals, you gain structure, consistency, and clarity. You stop obsessing over the end result and instead focus on what you can do today.