The Importance of Positive Self-Expectancy and Goals Attainment

Positive Self Expectancy is believing that you can accomplish your goals.  With this sense of optimism and confidence in your ability to accomplish this goal, you are more likely to set challenging goals for yourself and we are more likely to persist in the face of obstacles. 

Influencing Behavior

Positive self-expectancy is important for goal attainment because it influences your behaviors and motivations.  With a belief we can accomplish our goal, we are much more likely to put in the effort required to reach it and persevere in the face of challenges, because with the belief comes knowledge that we can ultimately overcome them. 

I watched this happen with one of our students. He had always wanted to serve in the military and when he came of age, he started the enlistment process.  During this time he was told that he would be unable to serve due to a condition he was born with. Initially, he was discouraged but persevered. This medical condition had not affected him since he was an infant, so he continued to do his research on ways he could serve his country.  It took more years to begin his service than most others, but he currently serves in the United States Navy. 

Here are some things you can do to develop Positive Self-Expectancy:

1. Set a Realistic goal. Goals that are too easy don’t motivate you. Goals that are too difficult usually lead to failure. When you set realistic goals you are more likely to believe you can achieve them
2. Break big goals into smaller stepping stones. We expect our children to graduate high school.  We break this down into smaller stepping stones of different grades and celebrate their accomplishments along the way, for example, 5th and 8th-grade continuation ceremonies. Same with martial arts. Every belt is a celebration and recognition of progress being made. The big goal is black belt and beyond but we break this into smaller goals of individual belts and even levels.   Breaking goals into smaller pieces makes them less daunting and more achievable. 
3. Focus on your accomplishments. Remind yourself of your achievements and what you have done well in the past. This helps you to believe in your future.
4. Visualize Success. Take time to imagine the moment of success for that big goal. See yourself and others celebrating your success. This helps boost your confidence. 
5. Surround yourself with a positive support system. The people you surround yourself with can have a big impact on your confidence and your self-expectancy. Choose who you spend your time with wisely and surround yourself with people who believe in you and support your goals. 

More life examples of Positive Self-expectancy:

-A student who believes they can do well on a test is more likely to study hard and prepare effectively. 

-An athlete who believes they can win is more likely to push themselves in practice and competition. 

To accomplish your goals you need to develop positive self-expectancy. Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed. Set realistic goals and break them down. Focus on your strengths. Visualize yourself accomplishing your goal and surround yourself with positive people.