Positive goals are more successful because they emphasize outcomes.

Outcome-oriented thinking drives one toward richer possibilities, while negative or problem-oriented or “stop” goals focus on the thing that is not desired, rather than what should replace it.rR1 Outcome-orientation lends well to goal measurability.



  1. David Rock, Your Brain at Work: Strategies for Overcoming Distraction, Regaining Focus, and Working Smarter All Day Long, 1st ed (New York: Harper Business, 2009). (See notes.)