Goals aligned with a client's values, beliefs, and motivations are called what?

• A. SMART goals
• B. process goals
• C. relevant goals
• D. outcome goals

Answer: (C)

Fitting goals to what matters most to the person is what makes them relevant. When a goal aligns with a client’s values, beliefs, and motivations, it feels meaningful, so the client is more likely to commit, stay engaged, and push through obstacles. This relevance boosts intrinsic motivation, because the goal isn't just a rule to follow but a personal aim that resonates with their life priorities.

For contrast, process goals focus on the actions taken, and outcome goals emphasize the end result without tying it to the person’s meaning or priorities. SMART design can include relevance as part of its criteria, but the term that captures alignment with values and motivations is relevance.