Overall results (score 58)

According to John's score, he generally employs a good approach to the whole goal-setting process, but perhaps hasn't yet explored it to its full potential. Sometimes, his attitudes and behaviors may actually limit his prospects for achievement. Although he does seem to take his goals seriously, he needs to develop a much more solid and proactive approach to realizing them. Brushing up on his goal-setting skills can help ensure that he is creating the conditions for success. Check out the rest of his results for more details.

Use of Goal-setting Techniques (score 61)

John's results indicate that although he does use some strategies to help him set and achieve his goals, he may not be using them to their full potential. If success and accomplishment are really important to him, he needs to further develop a more realistic and solid plan to get there. Some effective goal-setting techniques that many people use include writing a detailed list of their goals and deadlines to achieve them, rewarding themselves after accomplishing a specific step or objective, stating their goals in positive terms, and segmenting larger goals into smaller steps. It's not only essential to have a detailed plan of action, but John must also be willing to make adjustments along the way, as certain developments may require him to adjust the timeline or the goal itself.

Self-efficacy (score 58)

John's results indicate that although he generally has faith in himself and his ability to reach his goals, he may falter from time to time. When a goal proves to be very challenging, he may become somewhat discouraged and afraid that he may not be up to the task. Perhaps there are some instances when he is setting the bar much too high, aiming for goals that are rather unrealistic and difficult to achieve - in which case, it's normal to feel at a loss. Although it is important to set goals that are challenging, they must also be within his reach as well; otherwise, he will only be setting himself up for failure. In addition, if he feels as though he doesn't possess the right skills to accomplish a certain goal, then an adjustment to his approach is required - acquiring some training, breaking it down into smaller steps, or allowing himself a more reasonable timeframe to achieve it - whatever it takes. John can have the best plan in the world, but if he doesn't have complete faith in himself, then he won't get very far.

Locus of Control (score 56)

John's responses indicate that his locus of control is in the mid-range between external and internal. Although he generally feels as though he is in control of the direction his life takes, there are some things that he assumes he is not in command of. Unfortunately, this perspective can sometimes prove disadvantageous to the goal-setting process. Individuals with an external locus of control are more likely to set goals that are either too easy or much too difficult, often attributing successful goal achievement to chance or being in the right place at the right time. Those with an internal locus of control however, are more likely to actively set and strive for realistic goals, and tend to accept responsibility as well as credit for their actions. In fact, research has shown that this attitude generates high motivation, effort, and perseverance.