Setting goals to be achieved in 12 months’ time? Think again. It turns out that setting big picture, long-term goals is not as effective as setting goals that are attainable in the short term. This was the finding of a study conducted among MBA students and published in Applied Psychology: An International Review. The study compared the application of goal setting theory on student self-efficacy, satisfaction with their MBA program, as well as performance. They found that immediately after setting specific high goals, the self-efficacy of MBA students who set year end (distal) outcome goals was lower than participants who had determined to either ‘do your best’ or set learning goal conditions. Performance was significantly higher among those who set proximal goals (higher probability but lower value) compared to those who set distal goals (with lower probability but higher value). Participants who set proximal goals, as well as a distal outcome goal, achieved greater success than those who only set a distal goal or those who were urged to do their best. Drawing on these findings, we can assume that when setting personal and professional goals, we may be better off focussing on short term, achievable goals that when cumulatively achieved, lead to a greater outcome. Setting daily goals that are achievable in most instances will ensure you receive the professional and personal satisfaction you need to drive performance today, tomorrow and the day after that. And isn’t that what you need as a contractor? Need more time to reach your goals? Experts at the Ayers Group are here to free your time so that you can get back to focus on achieving your daily goals. Our online portal can help you manage your contracts – upload timesheets and expenses, prepare contracts and invoices, review where you’re at from one portal in real time, with ease. We can also help you manage your tax obligations and connect you with experts in finance for advice on superannuation, novated leasing and more. Contact an expert at the Ayers Group today.