The Science of Goal Setting

The Science of Goal Setting

Update: 2025-12-22
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Today on Fitness Stuff for Normal People, Marianna and Tony break down why goal setting works for some people and consistently fails for others. If you have ever felt frustrated, inconsistent, or unsure why your effort is not matching your results, you are not alone. This episode dives into the psychology behind effective goal setting, the most common reasons people fall short, and how clearer, more intentional goals change behavior. The conversation offers a practical framework for setting goals that are realistic, motivating, and aligned with real life.


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Timestamps:

(5:57 ) Goal Setting Theory


(15:35 ) How to Actually Set and Achieve Your Goals


(19:19 ) 5 Steps to Set Your Goal and Plan


(19:28 ) Step 1: Set Desired Outcome

(24:24 ) Step 2: Decompose the Goal Into Micro-Processes


(26:54 ) Step 3: Decide What to Measure

(31:37 ) Step 4: Feedback and Adaptability


(35:15 ) Step 5: Accountability Systems


(42:49 ) Why Most People Fail

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The Science of Goal Setting

The Science of Goal Setting

Tony and Marianna