OUTCOME GOALS VS PROCESS GOALS
Focus On What You Control
Listen to Lesson 1
One of the biggest mistakes wrestlers make is focusing on outcome goals instead of process goals. This lesson will teach you the difference and why it matters for your performance.
❌ Outcome Goals (The Wrong Focus)
Outcome goals are results-based. They focus on winning, rankings, records, and other things largely outside your control. Examples include:
• "I want to win state"
• "I want to be undefeated"
• "I want to be ranked #1"
• "I want to beat this specific opponent"
The problem? You cannot fully control outcomes. You can wrestle perfectly and still lose due to bad calls, tough draws, or simply facing a better opponent on that day. When you focus on outcomes, you set yourself up for anxiety and disappointment.
✓ Process Goals (The Right Focus)
Process goals are action-based. They focus on things you CAN control — your effort, attitude, technique, and preparation. Examples include:
• "I will give 100% effort in every match"
• "I will maintain a positive attitude regardless of the score"
• "I will take the first shot in every period"
• "I will practice my setups 50 times per day"
Process goals are 100% within your control. When you achieve them, you succeed regardless of whether you win or lose. This creates confidence and consistency.
The Paradox
When you stop obsessing over winning and start focusing on the process,
you actually WIN MORE.
Why Process Goals Lead to Better Results
1. They Reduce Anxiety
When you focus on what you can control, you feel less pressure. You're not worried about outcomes — you're just executing your plan. Less anxiety = better performance.
2. They Build Confidence
Every time you achieve a process goal, you feel successful. This builds confidence that carries into competition. Outcome goals only reward you if you win — process goals reward you for doing the right things.
3. They Improve Consistency
Process goals give you a clear action plan for every match. You know exactly what to do. This consistency leads to better overall performance and, ironically, more wins.
📝 EXERCISE: Convert Your Goals
Write down 3 outcome goals you currently have, then convert them into process goals:
Outcome Goal #1: ________________
Convert to Process Goal:
[ What specific actions can you control? ]
Outcome Goal #2: ________________
Convert to Process Goal:
[ What specific actions can you control? ]
Outcome Goal #3: ________________
Convert to Process Goal:
[ What specific actions can you control? ]
🎯 KEY TAKEAWAY
Stop focusing on outcomes (wins, rankings, records). Start focusing on the process (effort, attitude, technique). When you master the process, the outcomes take care of themselves. That's how predators think.
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