Unlocking Motivation: The Power of Self-Concordant Goal Setting

In the fast-paced world of sports, motivation is often the driving force behind success. Yet, the challenge lies not in igniting motivation but in sustaining it. For athletes, the journey can be filled with setbacks, pressures, and moments of self-doubt. As coaches, you hold the key to unlocking motivation that lasts—motivation rooted in purpose, authenticity, and personal growth. Enter self-concordant goals: a transformational approach grounded in self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) that connects athletes’ ambitions with their intrinsic values and identity.

This article unpacks the concept of self-concordant goals, explores the evidence supporting their impact, and provides actionable strategies for coaches to help athletes tap into their full potential.

What Are Self-Concordant Goals?

Self-concordant goals are deeply personal objectives that align with an individual’s core values, passions, and long-term sense of self (Sheldon & Elliot, 1999). Unlike extrinsically motivated goals—focused on external rewards or avoiding penalties—self-concordant goals are intrinsically rewarding.

For example, an athlete might strive to improve their free-throw accuracy because of their love for basketball, not merely to win accolades or avoid criticism. The pursuit itself is fulfilling, making the journey as meaningful as the destination.

Key Characteristics of Self-Concordant Goals

1. Autonomy: Goals are chosen freely and reflect personal values, fostering a sense of ownership.

2. Intrinsic Motivation: The pursuit is enjoyable and meaningful in itself.

3. Sustainability: These goals inspire persistence and resilience, even in the face of adversity.

Why Self-Concordant Goals Matter in Sports

1. Enhanced Motivation and Persistence

Athletes pursuing self-concordant goals show remarkable resilience. Research by Sheldon & Houser-Marko (2001) highlights how these goals drive sustained effort, particularly in challenging situations. When athletes connect their efforts to personal growth rather than external validation, they’re more likely to persevere through setbacks and stay committed to their development.

2. Psychological Well-Being

Self-concordant goals satisfy three basic psychological needs outlined in self-determination theory: autonomy, competence, and relatedness (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Athletes who feel in control of their goals and aligned with their values report higher vitality and lower burnout rates. Conversely, athletes with low autonomy often feel drained and disengaged (Adie et al., 2008).

3. Improved Performance

A meta-analysis by Van den Broeck et al. (2021) found that intrinsic motivation correlates strongly with improved performance and well-being. In sport, athletes who pursue self-concordant goals perform better because their motivation is driven by passion and purpose, not just external rewards.

(To read more, visit the SPKN Sport Knowledge Center at http://www.SPKNmedia.org)

Resources

Adie, J. W., Duda, J. L., & Ntoumanis, N. (2008). Autonomy support, basic need satisfaction and the optimal functioning of adult male and female sport participants: A test of basic needs theory. Motivation and Emotion, 32(3), 189-199.

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer Science & Business Media.

Mageau, G. A., & Vallerand, R. J. (2003). The coach–athlete relationship: A motivational model. Journal of Sports Sciences, 21(11), 883-904.

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78.

Sheldon, K. M., & Elliot, A. J. (1999). Goal striving, need satisfaction, and longitudinal well-being: The self-concordance model. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 76(3), 482.

Sheldon, K. M., & Houser-Marko, L. (2001). Self-concordance, goal attainment, and the pursuit of happiness: Can there be an upward spiral? Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 80(1), 152.

Van den Broeck, A., Howard, J. L., Van Vaerenbergh, Y., Leroy, H., & Gagné, M. (2021). Beyond intrinsic and extrinsic motivation: A meta-analysis on self-determination theory’s multidimensional conceptualization of work motivation. Organizational Psychology Review, 11(3), 204138662110061.