The problem of goalodicy: The unintended consequences of goal pursuit

Abstract

Pursuing the summit of Everest becomes part of who you are. Your selfimage becomes inseparable from the summit. Contingencies, unintended consequences, and other obstacles attempt to get in your way but ultimately fail to distract you. And distractions they are, since such obstacles only remind you to focus on what is important—achieving your goal. You focus on the summit. You become determined to meet your goal. The goal itself is straightforward: summit the mountain. You know, at least in theory, how this can be done. You put trust in the expedition leaders, and they reassure you that they have it all figured out. Stay the course, don’t get distracted, and listen to their guidance. Don’t worry about the inevitable setbacks, such as the lack of sleep, the uncomfortable cough, the egos of your climbing partners. Focus on attaining your goal. You don’t need to worry about finding excuses because you will have success. Your sense of self and the goal have become inseparable.