Self-Help

Get It Done

Name: Get It Done
Rating: 4.8 (1000 reviews)
Author: Ayelet Fishbach

Ayelet Fishbach

27 minAudio9 insights

What you'll learn

•How to set motivating and meaningful goals that inspire action.
•The importance of measurable targets and how to set them effectively.
•How incentives can both help and hinder motivation.
•Ways to boost intrinsic motivation and make goal pursuit enjoyable.
•How to sustain motivation by monitoring progress and handling setbacks.
•Strategies for managing multiple goals and exercising self-control.
•The role of patience and social support in achieving long-term goals.

Who should read this

✓Individuals struggling to maintain motivation over long-term goals
✓Students and professionals seeking practical strategies for goal achievement
✓People interested in understanding self-control and overcoming temptation
✓Anyone looking to leverage social support to enhance personal success

About this book

A comprehensive guide to understanding and applying the science of motivation to set, pursue, and achieve meaningful goals.

Did You Know?

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The 10,000 steps daily goal originated from a Japanese pedometer marketing campaign, not rigorous scientific research.

2 more facts available in the app

Audio Summary

Section 1

Set Goals That Pull You Forward, Not Push You Like Chores

3:45

9 Sections

Preview: Set Goals That Pull You Forward, Not Push You Like Chores

Imagine standing at a crossroads, the morning sun casting a warm glow on two paths. One path is labeled 'Aspiration' and the other 'Chore.' This metaphor beautifully captures the essence of how we set our goals. When goals are framed as exciting aspirations—desired end states—they pull us forward with an irresistible force, much like the climbers who dream of reaching Everest’s summit. They don’t just want to climb; they want to stand on top of the world. This vision imbues their goal with meaning, making even the grueling training feel worthwhile.

Setting goals as ends rather than means transforms motivation from a tedious task into a passionate pursuit.

Contrast this with goals framed as means—those steps and chores that feel like obstacles rather than opportunities. For example, focusing on 'applying for jobs' instead of 'finding a dream job' shifts your mindset from excitement to obligation. The difference is subtle but powerful.

Another key insight is the distinction between approach and avoidance goals. Approach goals pull us toward a positive outcome, like winning a game or building a happy relationship. Avoidance goals push us away from a negative, like not losing or avoiding rejection. While avoidance goals can feel urgent, they often sap our energy and make the journey feel like a drag.

Approach goals tend to create feelings of eagerness and pride, while avoidance goals often lead to anxiety and guilt.

Consider the story of a person trying to eat healthily. Framing the goal as 'eat more vegetables' (approach) is more motivating than 'avoid junk food' (avoidance). The first feels like a positive challenge; the second feels like a restriction.

However, the story is not one-size-fits-all. Some people are naturally more motivated by avoidance goals, especially in situations where safety or responsibility is paramount. But for most, especially in ideal or aspirational goals, approach framing is more sustaining.

As you reflect on your own goals, ask yourself: Are you pursuing something because it excites you, or because you want to avoid a problem? Are your goals framed as ends or as the steps to something else? This awareness can unlock new levels of motivation.

With this foundation, let’s now explore how putting a number on your goals can sharpen your focus and pull you forward even more powerfully.