Forbes: How SMART Goals Sabotage Success (and the Brain Science of What Works)

May 9, 2024

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In a recent Forbes article by Dr. Kyra Bobinet, the CEO and Founder of Fresh Tri, Dr. Bobinet dives into a topic that resonates deeply with our community: how to redefine success beyond traditional performance-based goals. Dr. Bobinet challenges the notion that success is solely achieved through ticking off specific milestones and instead advocates for embracing a more flexible approach—the Iterative Mindset.

SMART Goals

Many of us are familiar with the pressure of setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) goals in various aspects of our lives—whether it’s aiming for fitness targets or professional achievements. However, Dr. Bobinet highlights the limitations of this approach, especially when life throws unexpected challenges our way.

The Habenula

She explains the concept of the “habenula hijack” in simpler terms—a part of our brain that can shut down motivation when we face setbacks or perceived failures. This often happens when we’re overly fixated on rigid goals, leading to feelings of defeat and discouragement.

Dr. Bobinet shares a relatable story about Maya, a talented gymnast, whose aspirations were overshadowed by unrealistic expectations set by others. Maya’s journey serves as a cautionary tale about the detrimental effects of relentless pursuit of perfection based on traditional performance metrics.

Key Takeaways

The key takeaway from Dr. Bobinet’s insights is the power of iteration—an approach that encourages us to view setbacks as opportunities for growth. Instead of being discouraged by obstacles, the Iterative Mindset invites us to adapt and learn from our experiences, fostering sustainable progress over time.

At Fresh Tri, we understand the importance of adopting a mindset that aligns with our natural inclinations for growth and resilience. Dr. Bobinet’s research reinforces that embracing an Iterative Mindset is not only empowering but also crucial for achieving lasting habit change.

In a world where change is constant, rigid performance-based goals can often lead to frustration and disillusionment. By embracing iteration and reframing setbacks as valuable learning experiences, we can navigate our personal and wellness journeys with greater flexibility and optimism.

To learn more about how adopting an Iterative Mindset can transform your approach to success, we invite you to explore Dr. Bobinet’s insightful article on Forbes. Discover how Fresh Tri’s philosophy of iteration can empower you to achieve meaningful and sustainable growth in your health and wellness goals.

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