# Why Traditional Goal Setting Fails (and What to Do Instead)

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-lift-podcast-7052666/why-traditional-goal-setting-fails-and-what-to-do-instead
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-lift-podcast-7052666/why-traditional-goal-setting-fails-and-what-to-do-instead.md
Podcast: [The Lift Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-lift-podcast-7052666)
Published: 2025-10-22T06:31:23+00:00
Episode link: https://theliftpodcast.podbean.com/e/s02e19/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/qtjcvj73if7kuntn/S02E19.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-lift-podcast-7052666/episodes/why-traditional-goal-setting-fails-and-what-to-do-instead
Duration seconds: 2654

## Resource

What if the problem isn’t you—it’s the way we set goals? In this insightful conversation, Simon Matthews and Darren unpack the complexities of behaviour change and goal setting, exploring why so many of us struggle to sustain motivation and how we can approach goals in a healthier, more flexible way. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of unmet goals, the science of self-efficacy, and the pitfalls of traditional “all-or-nothing” thinking. Instead of rigid targets, they advocate for open goals that foster curiosity, self-understanding, and genuine growth. Key takeaways: ✅ Goals are powerful tools—but only when they’re meaningful and flexible✅ Self-efficacy is the secret ingredient behind lasting change ✅ Boom-and-bust thinking often leads to burnout and disengagement ✅ Failure can be one of our greatest teachers ✅ Open and observational goals help cultivate self-awareness ✅ Curiosity and experimentation make change more sustainable Whether you’re chasing health improvements, personal growth, or renewed motivation, this episode will help you set goals that work for you—not against you. Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global #BehaviorChange #GoalSetting #SelfEfficacy #MindsetMatters #PersonalGrowth #MotivationPodcast #LifestyleMedicine #HealthPodcast #ResilienceTools #TheLiftProject

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## Transcript

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