Episode 6: How Goals Work: Unlocking Motivation with Goal Setting Theory

04/29/25 • 11 min

In this episode, Ryan dives into Locke and Latham’s Goal Setting Theory—what makes goals work, and why “just do it” just doesn’t cut it. Whether you're managing teams or setting personal benchmarks, this theory has something to teach about motivation, clarity, and commitment. Listen in for goal-setting insights you can use in any mission-driven setting.

🎯 Goal Setting Theory

Developed by Edwin Locke & Gary Latham 📖 Learn more:

APA Article (1990): "Work Motivation and Satisfaction: Light at the End of the Tunnel"

👉 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.1990.tb00207.x

APA Article (2002): “Building a Practically Useful Theory of Goal Setting and Task Motivation”

👉 https://doi.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0003-066X.57.9.705

Leadership IQ summary and insights:

👉 https://www.leadershipiq.com/blogs/leadershipiq/goal-setting-theory-locke-latham

🎯 Goal Setting Theory

Developed by Edwin Locke & Gary Latham 📖 Learn more:

APA Article (1990): "Work Motivation and Satisfaction: Light at the End of the Tunnel"

👉 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.1990.tb00207.x

APA Article (2002): “Building a Practically Useful Theory of Goal Setting and Task Motivation”

👉 https://doi.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0003-066X.57.9.705

Leadership IQ summary and insights:

👉 https://www.leadershipiq.com/blogs/leadershipiq/goal-setting-theory-locke-latham

Previous Episode

Episode 5: Teamwork Takes Time: Navigating Tuckman's Stages of Group Development Model

Tuckman’s Stages of Group Development Model—forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning—might sound like corporate buzzwords, but it’s a powerful way to understand how teams evolve. In this episode, Ryan explores how this model plays out in nonprofit settings, with implications for leaders and team members. Whether you're managing a board, staff, or volunteers, knowing your group stage can help guide it forward. Listen in!

📚 Resources for Further Exploration

🔍 Tuckman, B. W. (1965). Developmental sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin, 63(6), 384–399. - Seminal theory article

📄 Tuckman, B. W., & Jensen, M. A. C. (1977). Stages of small-group development revisited. Group & Organization Studies, 2(4), 419–427. - Adds the adjourning stage

🛠️ MindTools: Tuckman’s Stages of Team Development https://www.mindtools.com/ay49bon/tuckmans-forming-storming-norming-performing - Model overview and application tips

Next Episode

Episode 0: Welcome to Mission 501: The Podcast!

Welcome to Mission 501: The Podcast — where psychology meets work, with a nonprofit twist! In this short intro episode, Ryan shares what the show is all about, what inspired it, and what you can expect in full episodes. If you're passionate about nonprofit organizations, leadership, teamwork, professional development, organizational psychology, or just looking to hear more about workplace dynamics, you're in the right place!

🔗 Learn more about Ryan and his work: https://mission501.co

💼 Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/aldrichct

🎧 Make sure you hit follow and join the mission!