As we move forward in our life journeys, it is exciting to discover new

passions and rediscover passions we once had. We are continually

shaping and creating new visions and goals. When we do this, we are
looking forward and are seeing many wonderful possibilities. To help
you motivate yourself to achieve your goals, consider applying Locke
and Latham’s goal theory and Victor Vroom’s expectancy theory.

Goal Theory

The basic premise of goal theory is that people can form expectations
about the future and strive to achieve them. This way of thinking plays
a key role in the development of this theory. Locke and Latham,
leading researchers on goal theory, tell us that it allows us to form
expectations about the future and that we can motivate ourselves by
setting future goals (as cited in Jones and George). Locke and Latham
continue to suggest that goals affect behavior in four ways:

1. Directing attention: Expectations allow you to focus more closely

on your goal or task.
2. Mobilizing effort: Expectations allow you to bring together efforts
toward a goal or task.
3. Encouraging persistence: Goals increase your persistence
toward achievement.
4. Facilitating the development of strategies: Goals help you
develop and make adjustments in your strategies to achieve them.