external goals

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "external goals" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing objectives or targets that are set outside of an individual or organization, often in a broader context such as business, personal development, or project management. Example: "In order to achieve success, we must align our internal strategies with our external goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Internal competition trumps external goals.

The New Yorker

Pull motives represent external goals that influence one's behaviour toward them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is clear enough that, in Mr. Kohl's mind, the illicit activities now emerging were subservient to his higher external goals.

The New York Times

The behavioristic approach examines how motives are learned and how internal drives and external goals interact with learning to produce behaviour.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another dimension along which debates concerning motivational processes have flourished is the question of whether motivation is primarily the result of internal needs or external goals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For example, large multi-national corporations are known for their strict standard operating procedures; local companies operate with speed, agility and aggressiveness in achieving internal and external goals.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"While we claim that all of this is done for domestic purposes, the internal and external goal can become the same, and then you have the risk that this turns toxic".

The New York Times

The infant's physical interactions with his environment progress from simple uncoordinated reflex movements to more coordinated actions that are intentionally repeated because they are interesting or because they can be used to obtain an external goal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the fourth subphase, from the 8th to the 12th month, the child begins coordinating his actions to attain an external goal; he thus begins solving simple problems, building on actions he has mastered previously.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Defines market value management as having the external goal of maximizing shareholders' value, while also having the internal goal of maximizing stakeholders' value.

International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility

His desires for pleasure, power or some other external goal have become so strong that they make him care too little or not at all about acting ethically.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting "external goals", ensure they align with your internal values and capabilities for increased motivation and a higher likelihood of success.

Common error

Avoid solely focusing on "external goals" without fostering intrinsic motivation. Relying exclusively on external validation can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction, diminishing long-term commitment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "external goals" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As Ludwig AI explains, "external goals" are objectives set outside oneself. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in discussing motivation, leadership, and organizational strategy.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "external goals" refers to objectives that originate from outside an individual or organization, influencing their actions and strategies. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in various contexts. While "external goals" is relatively uncommon, its usage spans across news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. When setting "external goals", remember to align them with your internal values to boost motivation and success. Common mistakes include over-relying on external validation without nurturing intrinsic motivation. Semantically related alternatives include "outward objectives" and "exterior aims", each providing a slightly different emphasis. By understanding the nuances and potential pitfalls of "external goals", you can better integrate them into your planning and achieve more meaningful outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

external objectives

Synonymous replacement of "goals" with "objectives".

outward objectives

Focuses on the direction of the objectives being directed outward, instead of the goals themselves.

external ambitions

Synonymous replacement of "goals" with "ambitions".

exterior aims

Uses "aims" instead of "goals", implying a slightly broader or less defined target.

outside targets

Replaces "goals" with "targets", suggesting a more specific and measurable objective.

external aspirations

Uses "aspirations", implying a higher level of ambition or hope associated with the goals.

extrinsic motivations

Shifts the focus to the motivational aspect of achieving goals originating from outside.

outer ambitions

Uses "ambitions" instead of "goals", suggesting a stronger desire for achievement.

imposed objectives

Highlights the aspect of the goals being set or forced upon an individual or group.

third-party targets

Emphasizes that the targets are set by someone other than the one pursuing them.

FAQs

How do you define "external goals"?

"External goals" are objectives or targets that are set by outside entities or driven by external factors, rather than internal desires or values.

What is the difference between "external goals" and internal goals?

"External goals" are driven by external factors, while internal goals arise from personal values and desires. Internal goals are driven by personal values and desires, whereas "internal objectives" originate from within oneself.

How can I align my actions with "external goals"?

To align your actions with "external goals", break them down into smaller, manageable tasks, seek support from others, and regularly assess your progress. Keeping the "external goal" in mind may also help.

What are some examples of "external goals" in a business setting?

Examples of "external goals" in a business setting include increasing market share, achieving specific revenue targets, improving customer satisfaction scores, or expanding into new markets. These are all "commercial objectives" that are defined outside the individual.