Learn the secrets of Backward Planning for your goal settings
Many people fail to plan! It is said that if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.
Researchers from the Peking University, Korea University Business School, and the
University of Iowa in one of their research found that –planning plays an important role in
goal pursuit.
Scientists involved two groups in different backward and forward planning experiments.
One group followed forward planning. The other group used backward planning methods for
setting their goals.
In forward planning, the goals are set in chronological order. While backward planning
used reverse chronological order.
Forward Planning involved the beginning of the first step of the goal then immediate next
steps leading to the hypothetical achievement of the goal.
However, backward planning involved starting with hypothetical goal achievement as the
first step and moving on to the immediate steps followed to the first step.
Scientists found out that backward planning led to greater motivation. It also led to higher
goal expectancy with less time pressure with relevant performance as compared to forward
planning. People who are involved in the Backward Planning experiment did better than the
other group.
Yet, forward planning results showed decreased goal competency, increased time pressure,
and decreased motivation.
The study also suggested backward planning had a motivational impact on the people. It
also allowed them to think to achieve their goals.
Read more about the topic from the book, 8 Ways backward strategy can make you invincible: Learn the secret of backward planning to achieve your goals.