- Volha Shelepava
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 10
Process Focus vs. Outcome Focus: Why Balance Matters for Mental Well-Being
Why enjoying the journey (the process) and planning for the future (the outcome) are equally important in creating an enjoyable life
Written By: Volha Shelepava
About the Author
Volha Shelepava, Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor
Seriously, what's more important? Being "here and now" in the "flow of the moment" or planning the future, thinking through steps, and making sure you have enough resources to accomplish your goals?
The logical answer to this question would be the BALANCE. Now, I want to explore the importance of the process, the purpose of planning the outcome, and how they are connected.
For those who value results
Our entire life is a collection of goals - learning to walk, talking, finishing school, finding the right partner. Life itself is very structured. We know that spring will come after winter, and day after night. We count on and rely on that information. Goals create direction and provide a sense of predictability, and achieving a result is an incomparable feeling.
For those who appreciate the process
I think there's no need to describe how the smell of the ocean, touch of the sun on our skin, or a smile of the loved one's make us feel. No one asks, "What's the point?" in those moments. We are simply enjoying the moment. And if such a question suddenly arises, it means we're no longer in the process, but have begun to chew a mental gum. Pleasure from the process is the main source of energy for everything else in our lives. (I'm talking about a healthy process now; in trauma, this looks different.)
The connection between process and outcome
Let's say I have a goal that requires a lot of hard work, for example, finishing my thesis, buying an apartment, raising a child. Thoughts about how great it will be when I achieve these goals motivate me, but that's not always enough to keep me moving forward. So, where do I get the energy? FROM THE PROCESS!
This connection is not always easy to make. For example, sometimes if I have to write an article I need a walk in the park, or if I want to be a calm and positive parent for my child, I need my “me time” first.
Yes, sometimes there are happy coincidences when both the process and the result are enjoyable, but unfortunately, it’s not always the case. Therefore, it's important to maintain balance - remember our goals and where we're heading in the future and gather energy from the present moments of joy.
When Outcome Focus Takes Over
People who become overly outcome-focused often begin to believe that happiness lives somewhere in the future. You may notice yourself thinking, "I'll be happy when...", and noticing that you never feel fully satisfied even when you reach that goal.
The problem is that each achievement quickly becomes the starting point for the next goal. Without enjoying the process along the way, life can begin to feel like an endless checklist.
When Process Focus Takes Over
On the other hand, enjoying the present without any direction can also become limiting. We may avoid difficult conversations, postpone important decisions, because planning feels overwhelming.
Without meaningful goals, we risk feeling stuck, even if we're enjoying the moment.
What is your balance?
Do you only focus on the result and constantly forget about simple pleasures of life? Or maybe you hate planning and seem to be stuck in the loop with no progress? In both cases, I am here for you! Therapy can help us develop the flexibility to move between both process and outcome, rather than becoming stuck in one way of thinking. Let’s restore your balance together, so you can benefit from both – process and results.
