Taking a tiny step back: The impact of planning on a bumpy goal pursuit

Abstract

Across varied domains, prior research has examined the impact of setbacks and goal-inconsistent behaviors on goal pursuit. A large setback, whether a result of an external hurdle or an internally-driven goal-inconsistent behavior, may suggest that the goal is not really feasible and goal disengagement is ideal. Yet, a minor setback or a goal-deviation may just be a bump in the road that can, and often should, be overcome, especially for important, long-term goals. So, not all setbacks signal that failure is inevitable and goal pursuit should be put on hold. Forming a goal-directed plan shifts individuals from a deliberative to an implemental mindset and is commonly recommended by both academics and practitioners to help individuals pursue important goals and disengage from unachievable goals. But are plans beneficial when small, goal-related setbacks occur? Specifically, this article examines the impact of minor bumps in the road (experiencing small setbacks, engaging in minor goal-inconsistent behaviors) on continued goal pursuit. In three studies, field and lab, and across two different domains (eating healthy and saving money), we (1) show that small, seemingly acceptable setbacks can negatively influence goal pursuit when one has formed a plan, and (2) empirically demonstrate that when small setbacks occur, having a plan may increase feeling of action crisis and ultimately decrease interest in continued goal pursuit.