Ever heard of the fabled Harvard students who skyrocketed to success just by jotting down their goals? It’s one of those stories that feels almost too good to be true—and, spoiler alert, it is. The so-called “Harvard Written Goals Study” claims a group of graduates earned significantly higher annual incomes achieved compared to their fellow classmates, all because they wrote down their goals. However, neither the secretary of the class nor any fellow class members recalled such a study. But no relevant record or empirical evidence proves this legendary study actually happened.
Don’t worry—I’ve got your back. This article dives into the myth’s curious origins, outlines legitimate goals research, and leaves you with actionable advice to take your goal achievement game to the next level. The Harvard study might be fiction, but the benefits of written goals are very much real.
Key Takeaways
The “Harvard Written Goals Study” and its Yale counterpart? Pure myths, without any relevant records or support from Harvard business school or Yale administrators.
Real research by Gail Matthews at Dominican University proves that writing down clear goals boosts success by 42%.
Weekly progress reports, accountability partners, and structured checks are key to turning aspirations into reality.
The Myth of the Harvard Written Goals Study
Picture this: in 1979, a survey administered at Harvard Business School asks the graduating class about their future goals. Only 3% reportedly had written goals and detailed plans—while another 13% had goals but no plan. The kicker? A follow-up study conducted a decade later apparently showed the 3% was earning ten times as much as their classmates combined.
Sounds epic, right? Too bad it’s completely fabricated. The myth of the Harvard Written Goal Study, often cited to evaluate the effectiveness of writing down goals for achieving financial success, has been perpetuated by various self-help authors and motivational speakers.
No reported study or relevant record exists to support this graduation-related tale. Over the years, researchers—including big names like Tony Robbins, Brian Tracy, and Mark McCormack—dug deep into this supposed study, only to hit dead ends. Even Harvard administrators confirmed there was no such goal study conducted.
Adding to the confusion, some people mix this tale with another equally mythical story about Yale University. The supposed 1953 Yale study claimed that graduates who penned their goals achieved far greater success. However, Yale administrators and libraries have officially stated no research like this exists. The mix-up between Harvard or Yale often muddies the waters further.
Investigating the Evidence
By now, it’s obvious the purported study is nothing more than motivational folklore. But if these studies never happened, why do they persist? The answer lies in their appeal. I mean, who wouldn’t be inspired by the idea that writing down your goals could earn you ten times as much income? Unfortunately, no amount of re-telling makes it real.
Even Fast Company debunked the rumor as far back as 1996, concluding that the iconic Harvard study was a myth. Yet, over the years, coaches and speakers have passed this story off—maybe to sell books or seminars—overshadowing real, verifiable evidence.
Speaking of real evidence…
The Real Deal: Dr. Gail Matthews’ Dominican University Study
The story of written goals gets a major credibility boost thanks to Dr. Gail Matthews at Dominican University. Her 2007 study demonstrating the benefits of writing down one’s goals provided the kind of hard empirical evidence the Harvard or Yale reported study based tales about how one’s goals at graduation related to future success and income could only dream of.
The findings? Participants who wrote down their clear goals were 42% more likely to achieve them compared to those who didn’t. Additionally, combining weekly progress reports with an accountability partner made success rates skyrocket even further.
Key takeaways from the study included:
Writing goals makes them tangible, giving them a direct impact on success.
Specific, measurable goals outperformed vague aspirations.
Those with accountability partners achieved higher goal achievement percentages compared to individuals who worked alone.
This research showed that setting and reviewing goals can lead to measurable improvements—not just in business or finances, but in areas like personal growth, task completion, and overall productivity.
Written Goals vs. KPIs
Here’s where some confusion might creep in. People often compare written goals to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), but the two serve very different purposes. KPIs are like a company’s “pulse check”—ongoing metrics used to track business trends or long-term performance.
Written goals, however, focus on how one’s goals can be actively shaped and achieved within a timeframe (like a quarter or specific project). They’re less about the bigger picture and more about actionable steps. Think of them as shorter-term objectives within the broader framework KPIs are tracking.
Why Writing Down Goals Works
Okay, so what’s the science behind this? Why does the simple act of writing make such a big difference?
Clarity and Commitment – Writing your clear goals forces you to get specific. Instead of vague hopes like “make more money,” you end up with actionable plans like “secure three new clients this quarter.”
Accountability – Sharing one’s goals with a partner boosts motivation. You know they’ll ask for that update, so you’re less likely to slack off.
Progress Tracking – Regular reviews (like weekly progress reports) shine a light on both strengths and areas for improvement. They keep you proactive and focused.
Research by Dr. Gail Matthews shows that individuals who set written goals achieve a significantly higher level of success compared to those who do not set goals at all.
Add to this the power of coaching tools that help break goals into manageable chunks. Using just three coaching tools—breaking goals into milestones, establishing deadlines, and adding accountability partners—can significantly increase the likelihood of success.
The Harvard and Yale Mix-Up
We’ve talked a bit about the tangled mess of Harvard or Yale goal study myths, but it’s worth emphasizing how they’ve fed into each other. Misattributed dates, swapped universities, and exaggerated outcomes make the narrative even more confusing. One might mention the 1953 Yale study, while another swaps it for Harvard MBAs in 1979.
No matter the variation, these stories fail basic fact-checking. Both universities deny having conducted such research, and no relevant record exists to suggest otherwise.
Setting Effective Goals
Luckily, you don’t need fabled studies to accomplish big things. Here are actionable tips (backed by solid goals research) to help you stay on track:
Write Goals Clearly
Ambiguity is the enemy of achievement. If your goals aren’t clear, how will you know when you’ve achieved them? Instead of saying “Do better at work,” aim for “Complete all weekly reports by Thursday and secure one new client this month.”
Stay Committed
You can’t just write it down and hope for the best. Whether it’s scheduling tasks, developing coaching tools, or dedicating a bit of your senior year to self-improvement, action drives results.
Build Accountability
Partners make all the difference. Whether it’s a friend, colleague, or mentor, collaborating ensures follow-through. After all, nobody likes explaining why they gave up.
Review and Optimize
Regular reviews—such as weekly progress reports—show whether you’re heading in the right direction. Reflections on areas that need work keep momentum alive.
Final Thoughts
The Harvard written goals study may not exist, but the principles behind goal setting are undeniable. Real research—like that conducted by Gail Matthews—shows the massive potential of clear goals, written commitments, regular progress reviews, and accountability.
The take-home lesson? Forget the myths and focus on strategies that work. With pen in hand, start shaping your future. The recipe for success isn’t a mystery—it’s right here.
Go ahead—set goals, write them down, and start creating a life that’s just as legendary as those mythical studies.
You’ve got this!
FAQ
Did the Harvard Written Goals Study actually happen?
The Harvard Written Goals Study did not actually happen, as there is no documented evidence to support its existence. Stay motivated by setting your own clear goals, regardless of any myths.
What evidence supports the effectiveness of written goals?
The effectiveness of written goals is clearly supported by Dr. Gail Matthews’ 2007 study, which revealed that those who wrote down their goals were 42% more likely to achieve them. So grab a pen and start writing your goals to boost your chances of success!
What are the key elements of effective goal setting?
Effective goal setting stems from writing clear goals, committing to actionable steps, engaging with accountability partners, and regularly reviewing your progress. Embrace these elements to achieve your dreams!
Is there any research linking goal setting to success from Yale University?
There is no research linking goal setting to success from Yale University, as confirmed by inquiries to their administrators. Focus on implementing your own goal-setting strategies for personal success!
How can I set effective goals?
To set effective goals, break them down into manageable tasks with realistic deadlines and involve others for support. Regularly reviewing your progress will keep you motivated and on track for success!
Matt Santi is an inspiring personal growth and development leader. With over 15 years of experience in business management, HR, and operations, Matt’s career has shaped his passion for guiding individuals on their journey of self-improvement.
As an Eagle Scout, Matt’s dedication to service and community drives his commitment to helping others reach their full potential. He is a self-described personal development enthusiast, always eager to learn and grow from new experiences. Matt’s unique perspective and positive outlook on life influence his approach to writing and coaching others.
Matt’s writing on personal growth and development topics with a straightforward and actionable approach provides readers with practical tools and strategies to help them discover their strengths and abilities. His energy and expertise make him a valuable asset to anyone looking to cultivate a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
