Goal Setting Theory & Self-Regulation

Goal setting theory according to Lock & Latham (2002), points out what motivates people to set certain goals and complete tasks that follow along each goal, as well as how people regulate themselves while reaching their goals. Lock & Latham (2002), found that there are four systems in place when setting goals. First is direction, which steer an individual’s attention and effort toward goal-relevant activities and away from goal irrelevant activities. Second is energy, which states that hard goals lead to greater effort than low goals. The third system in place is persistence, stating that hard goals require prolonged effort. Finally, the fourth type of goal, is action orientated through which a person is motivated through their excitement of new competences and abilities. 

Applying Lock & Latham's goal setting theory to our character June, we see that her motivation for setting small goals to reach her overall goal of escaping involves each of the four aspects of the theory. Throughout each season, June's attention is focused on getting information to help not only herself, but others escape as well. In her efforts, June consistently avoids getting caught doing anything she wasn't supposed to do and maintains constant energy and attention for obtaining any information that will help keep her cover. In doing this, June remains persistent throughout each obstacle she faces, because she knows that with large efforts and risks will show great rewards. Furthermore, each time June accomplishes her goals, we see her confidence grow in her skills and competences. For instance, when she is persuades Serena to let go of her baby so that she can have a better life on the outside, and Serena does let go, June's enthusiasm grows for harder challenges. 

Additionally, self-regulation is an important facet in goal-setting theory. It states that the harder the goal, the more it requires an individual to regulate their effort-full behavior towards their goals. For June, the more intertwined she became with the Waterfords (the man and women who owned her) and her leadership within the "underground" handmaid's, so to speak, the harder she worked at keeping her cover while also hiding her conspiracies.