Episode 324: Stop Setting Goals. Do This Instead.

Written By Erin Diehl
 
 
 

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In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin explores a counterintuitive idea that might feel both relieving and radical: your life doesn’t need better goals, it needs clearer intentions. 

Instead of chasing outcomes for the sake of productivity, Erin makes the case that real fulfillment comes from aligning how you show up with what you actually value. She breaks down why goal obsession often leads to pressure and panic and how intention-setting brings presence, clarity, and joy. 

Why Goal-Setting Isn’t Working Anymore 

Erin unpacks how traditional goal-setting creates constant pursuit without satisfaction. When goals become the point (instead of a tool), we end up disconnected from ourselves—and measuring success in ways that don’t feel good or sustainable. 

Goals create pursuit; intention creates presence. 

Intention Over Achievement 

Intentions act like a compass, not a checklist. Erin explores how living with intention allows you to respond to real life—rather than perform for an imaginary finish line. Alignment beats achievement every time. 

Core Values = Your Real Strategy 

Fulfillment doesn’t come from doing more; it comes from doing what matters. Erin walks through how identifying and honoring your core values can guide decisions, behaviors, and boundaries—at work and beyond. 

The Five-Step Intention Framework 

Erin introduces a simple, practical framework to help listeners shift from goal obsession to intentional living—without blowing up their to-do list. This is about integration, not perfection. 

Joy Over Panic 

When intention leads, urgency loosens its grip. Erin shares how intention-setting replaces anxiety with agency—and why presence is the most underrated performance enhancer there is. 

Your Play Challenge 

This week, pick one intention rooted in your values. Ask: “How do I want to show up today?”

Your Freebie 

You’ve tried the emails, the all-hands rollout, and the polished decks, but the vision still isn’t landing. 

That’s because people don’t buy into a vision that’s presented to them; they buy into one they help shape.  

The 30-Minute Vision-Setting Meeting Template gives you a simple, human-centered way to create alignment, spark ownership, and build real momentum. Download it here.

No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) 

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Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! 

 
Erin Diehl
Next

Episode 323: Why Imperfect Leaders Make the Biggest Difference with Neil Ghosh