PROCESS-ORIENTED OBJECTIVES

What are Process-Oriented Objectives?

Process-Oriented Objectives are different than goals as they are not focused on the end result but they are HOW you are going to get yourself to the end goal. As the name suggests, these objectives are focused more on the process rather than the outcome. They are the small, yet meaningful actions, that you are going to take day to day to further your progress towards any goals that you wish to achieve.

I think I get it, but why are they important?

To me, process-oriented objectives are more important than your end goal. Anyone can have a goal of losing 30 pounds but it’s more important to ask yourself what you are going to do day to day to help you get there. It lets you visualize the process and lets you celebrate small accomplishments along the way. At times, the end goal can seem so far away. For example, it might take you 6 months to lose 30 pounds which when you are just starting out, can feel like an eternity. However, if you set up process-oriented objectives along the way, you will be more focused on the day-to-day and be making sure you are doing the little things to help you reach your goal. It will let you enjoy the journey.

You’re right about that! Can you give me an example though?

Absolutely! Let’s take what was mentioned above. You set a goal to lose 30 pounds over the course of the next 6 months and you want to set up process-oriented objectives to keep you motivated and on the correct path. All you have to do is ask yourself, “What do I need to do day-to-day to allow me to reach my goal?” It’s as simple as that.

For weight loss, what are some things that you can focus on daily that will allow you to lose weight?

Maybe you will exercise for at least 30 minutes each day of the week.
Maybe you will eat 4 healthy meals per day.
Maybe you will make sure that you are getting adequate sleep each and every night. Maybe you will tell yourself that you will lose 1 pound each and every week.

By setting these up, you can effectively keep yourself on track to reaching your goal. By making sure that you are exercising daily, eating healthy, and getting adequate sleep, you are clearly more focused on the process and understand the small things that go into losing your weight.

That makes complete sense to me!

I am glad that it does! You can apply and set up process-oriented objectives for any goal that you want to accomplish, not just weight loss. The biggest thing to remember is that small, daily, lifestyle changes lead to the bigger changes and accomplishments down the road.

Good luck!