What Type of Goals Should I Have?

What The Research Says

• An intrinsic goal is one taken on because it is inherently satisfying, whereas an extrinsic goal is one taken on in order to achieve an outcome external to ones self.
• Extrinsic (contingent) motivation tends to be less psychological powerful than intrinsic motivations, however, self-endorsed extrinsic goals (ones that you yourself create and are not compelled to do) are more complicated. Goals that require the approval of others to be completed are generally psychologically dangerous.
• In general, intrinsic goals (self acceptance, autonomy, community contribution, feeling healthy) are correlated more strongly to happiness and well being than extrinsic motivations (wealth, fame, good looks)
• Pursuit of extrinsic versus intrinsic goals has been shown to lead to poorer academic performance and less consistent physical exercise (in the context of maintaining an exercise program for looks rather than health) among other negative social consequences.
• Autonomous goals (ones taken on for your own reasons) versus controlled goals (ones you are forced or coerced to take on) are more psychologically satisfying.

References

• Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivations: Classic Definitions and New Directions (University of Rochester)
• Further Examining the American Dream: Differential Correlates of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Goals (University of Rochester)
• Intrinsic and Extrinsic Goals: Their Structure and Relationship to Well-Being in German and U.S. College Students (Social Indicators Research)
• The social costs of extrinsic relative to intrinsic goal pursuits revisited: The moderating role of general causality orientation (Katholieke Universiteit)