To Choose or Not to Choose: That’s Not Even a Question! Effects of Goal Motivation and Goal Setting (motto, SMART, WOOP) on Goal Progress and Related Variables

This study examined how different goal-setting strategies (SMART, motto, WOOP) and motivation type (autonomous vs. controlled) influence goal progress in 299 prospective teachers (M_age = 21, 76% female). Results showed autonomous goals led to better outcomes than controlled ones. While motto goals boosted vitality and positive affect, they reduced self-efficacy.