Internal Locus Of Control And Goal Setting

One of the most powerful insights from Rotter’s Social Learning Theory (SLT) is this: we are goal-directed beings. Whether clearly defined or not, our goals shape how we act, think, and grow. When goals are specific and measurable, we’re more likely to recognize progress and feel a sense of accomplishment. But not all goals are helpful—and not all approaches to goal setting are effective.

Let’s explore how internal locus of control and SLT can improve the way we set and pursue goals.

Direction Matters: Not All Goals Are Good Goals

Having a goal doesn’t guarantee a good outcome. Someone who sets a goal to maintain a steady supply of alcohol is goal-directed—but headed for harm. The key is direction. SLT encourages us to pursue goals that lead toward health, safety, fulfillment, and lasting change.

In SLT terms, goals emerge through the interaction of two forces:

External Reinforcements — when our actions are shaped by the environment
Personal Needs — when our behavior reflects internal motivation

Understanding this interaction helps clarify which goals are genuinely worth pursuing.

Why Internal Locus Of Control Matters

People with an internal locus of control believe they can influence outcomes through their actions. This mindset is essential for effective goal setting. Without it, even the best strategies fall flat. When we believe we have the power to make change, we’re more likely to set realistic goals—and stick with them.

Unfortunately, many people struggle here. As a clinical psychologist, I’ve seen how vague goals (“I want to feel better” or “I just want to be happy”) lead to frustration. Progress only happens when we define what “better” looks like and how we’ll get there.

Turning Concerns Into Action: The Role Of The PCI

To help people set better goals, I developed the Personal Concerns Inventory (PCI), a self-assessment that highlights what matters most to you—quickly and clearly.

Measures over 1,000 personal concerns in ~20 minutes
Tracks how concerns change over time
Generates a private “This Is Me!” report to focus your energy

Because the PCI is anonymous and self-guided, it removes “evaluation apprehension”—the pressure to appear a certain way in therapy or coaching. You get a clear snapshot of your personal landscape, ready for action.

What Are Personal Concerns?

In SLT and Positive PERFORMANCE Psychology, a personal concern is a goal at risk. Concerns fall into two categories:

High Expectancy of Losing a Valued Reward
(e.g., fear of losing a partner to illness)
Low Expectancy of Achieving a Valued Reward
(e.g., believing you won’t get into your dream school)

These concerns reveal emotional conflicts that block progress. By naming them, you gain the clarity needed for Focused Action.

Focused Action: From Insight To Change

Focused Action is the engine of transformation. It means setting clear goals and aligning behavior with your values. When you identify personal concerns, you can:

Reduce internal conflict
Increase motivation
Move confidently toward what matters most

Focused Action is at the heart of the Mulry Method and Positive PERFORMANCE Psychology. It empowers you to shift from confusion to clarity.

Your Path To Meaningful Success

SLT offers a science-based roadmap for real progress. By understanding the link between internal locus of control and goal setting—and using tools like the PCI—you can overcome vagueness, define your path, and take consistent action.

This isn’t just about setting goals. It’s about living intentionally.