Goal Directed Persistence

Goal-directed Persistence

The capacity or drive to follow through to the completion of a goal and not to be put off by other demands or competing interests

Persistence is needed when a task becomes boring, when it is interrupted, and when one needs to change strategies in order to reach the goal. Persistence involves sequencing, willfulness, and the ability to learn from experience, and is particularly important when task demands are long-term. It is very important in maintaining effort with tasks that are boring or uninteresting.

Because goal-directed persistence includes the ability to set a reachable goal and then display ongoing efforts and attention towards achieving this goal, it is clear that other executive functions come into play, particularly "planning and prioritization," "task initiation," and "sustained attention."

Goal-directed persistence is one of the last executive functions to mature. But even when children are young, these skills can be cultivated. Starting very small with the goal in sight (both in terms of time and space) is the first step. Give assistance to the child to reach the goal and offer affirmation when he reaches the goal. Gradually extend the time needed to reach the goal but keep reminders -make them visual!- in sight. Technology can be used to provide these reminders.

Activities in which goal-directed persistence come into play

Completing a homework assignment
Saving class "points" over time to exchange for the "reward"
Creating a large project for school
Reading a novel
Going back to an activity after an interruption
Completing a lengthy video game
Playing on a sports team
Developing an expertise in dance, art, or music

Here are some ideas to consider as you support students with goal-directed persistence:

Goal-Directed Persistence

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Clearly, this EF is affected by the maturing of other EFs. Which one do you think would play a key role in Goal-Directed Persistence? *

What grade do you think deficits in Goal-Directed Persistence is first going to be noticed? *

5th grade 8th grade 10th grade

Explain briefly why you think that grade level is where this EF would be noticed? *

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