If you’ve ever set a goal like:
- “I want to lose 30lbs”
- “I want to run a 5k”
- “I want to have more energy to play with my kids”
You’re not doing anything wrong. In fact, those are good goals and wildly important to have.
What they are, though, is incomplete. And this is where people usually get stuck.
What is an Outcome Goal?
Outcome goals are the ones you hear about most. These goals talk about the thing you want to achieve (and since we’re still in quarter 1 of 2026, this might be pretty fresh, still.
You have just read about some outcome goals above and they do matter. These give you direction and act as your North Star — the thing that is guiding your efforts.
The problem, though, is that outcome goals tell you what you want but not how to get there.
As for me? I like the how.
I like action.
I like tactics.
I like focusing on the things I can control right now that move me closer to my outcome goal.
What is a Process Goal?
The process goal is the focus on what you’re doing to get there and not just what you want.
These define your daily, weekly, and monthly actions. They are also a really great way to create “wins” which create momentum to keep you on track.
It’s important to note, though, that these do not replace your outcomes. Your process goals work in support of your outcome goals.
Outcome = destination
Process = the path
Turning Outcome Goals into Process Goals
Outcome 1
“I want to lose 20lbs.”
Process 1
“I am going to workout 3 days per week and maintain a 10% caloric deficit from what I’m currently doing.”
—
Outcome 2
“I want to run a 5k.”
Process 2
“I am going to follow a structured running program 3 days per week.”
—
Outcome 3
“I want to play with my kids without having to say, ‘Daddy needs a break.'”
Process 3
“I am going to lift weights 3 days per week and go for walks with my family 3 days per week.”
—
It’s important to note that none of these things are way out there, they’re not extreme plans, and they’re not dependent upon motivation.
They are tangible, actionable, and fully in your control. You could even start knocking them out today.
Why Processes Improve Your Chances of Success
This one might be better headlined with, “why does Chris love process goals?”
- You focus on the present moment
- You deal with actions you are in direct control of
- You emphasize effort over outcomes
You can [and should] measure your outcome goals but process goals keep you focused on the action.
If you’ve made the effort to achieve your health and fitness goals before, you know that progress can slow, motivation can subside, and life gets busy. Consistency is built through habitual effort and that effort can be “won” with the use of your process goals.
In short, consistency drives results!
Your Homework
This part matters and it’s something that I actually want you to take part in. Now, I may not know you and I may never see you but I am confident you’re tired of trying again and again.
So, here’s your homework:
- Write down your outcome goals
- For each outcome goal, define your clear process goal(s)
- Start implementing your processes tomorrow
– You could even begin to implement them today!!
Don’t wait for the perfect plan or the perfect time.
Don’t wait for motivation.
Clear a path to your outcome goals by focusing on things you can control right now, in this moment.
That’s it.
Let’s get to work!
And if you want help with defining some processes, email us at [email protected]. We’re here to help!