Goal Quote by Daniel H. Pink
““Goals that people set for themselves and that are devoted to attaining mastery are usually healthy. But goals imposed by others--sales targets, quarterly returns, standardized test scores, and so on--can sometimes have dangerous side effects.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, Daniel H. Pink, 2009
Personal,‑driven goals foster growth and wellbeing, whereas externally imposed targets can create pressure, unethical behavior, and burnout.
In simple terms: Self‑chosen goals are healthy; imposed goals can be harmful.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize intrinsic goals.
Themes
motivation
wellbeing
ethics
performance
autonomy
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career planning
- education
- sales teams
- personal development
- organizational management
Key Concepts
Self‑determination theory
extrinsic incentives
goal setting
Questions to Reflect On
- Are your goals truly yours?
- How do you balance external expectations with personal values?
A Different Perspective
External pressures may lead to short‑term gains at the cost of long‑term health.
