Since we talked about SMART goals yesterdays let’s move to the next level today.
I’ve been pushing more and more toward systems instead of outcome goals. I’m toying with a few new systems right now that I’m sure will be the topic of an upcoming issue of The Physician Assistant Exam Scholar’s Newsletter.
Anyway, the systems approach is slightly different than the outcome approach.
Standard outcome goals are things like
– Lose 10 lbs
– Pass all my classes
The problem with those types of goals is that you don’t have direct control over those things. You can do things that you believe will move you toward those things, but you can’t 100% control the outcome.
You do everything right, and then you don’t’ get the outcome you want and you meltdown and go eat a gallon of ice cream.
With system based goals, you set yourself up to DO things, and you make sure you do them.
Outcome goal.
– Have the best grass in the neighborhood
System goal
– Cut and trim grass weekly
– Twice a week spend 30 minutes removing weeds
– Once a month apply treatment to lawn
Systems get things done and can be corrected if they don’t achieve outcome goals. Outcome goals don’t’ leave you any room for improvement. You are either a success or more likely a failure, and that’s just silly.
There’s also the bit about control. I can do everything in my power to have an amazing lawn, and then some jerk drives up on my grass and doe a bunch of donuts ruining all my hard work.
Am I a failure? Nope.
With system goals, you are a success as soon as you begin. Not at the end. It’s much easier on the ego.
Now let’s look at passing your PANCE.
Passing is an outcome goal. You don’t have control over the outcome, but how can you set up a system to give you the best chance of passing the exam?
– For three months, I’m going to study three hours a day for four days per week by reading through review books and making notes about the things I need to remember.
– I’m going to listen to every episode of the Physician Assistant Exam Review podcast ( you can find it at www.physicianassistantexamreview.com or in any podcatcher)
– I’m going to take two full practice tests
– For the last two months, I’m going to spend 15 minutes per day using The Final Step questions to drill home everything I’m learning.
Pass or fail you’ve done everything you can do.
Sit down today and see if you can change one goal you’ve had for a long time into a system goal. Just see what it looks like if you did.
Give it a shot.
Oh, and since you’re going to want a copy of The Final Step, you can go here to get it.
www.physicianassistantexamreview.com/thefinalstep
Brian Wallace
