Final answer:
The key difference between a self-concordant goal and a self-discordant goal lies in personal alignment; self-concordant goals reflect an individual's personal values and interests, making them more motivational and fulfilling to pursue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most significant difference between a self-concordant goal and a self-discordant goal is that a self-concordant goal reflects personal values and interests. When setting goals, the importance of aligning them with one's own values and interests is fundamental to achieving a sense of fulfillment and motivation. A self-discordant goal, on the other hand, is often externally imposed and does not align with one's own personal values and interests, which may result in a lack of motivation and satisfaction when pursuing these goals.
Self-concordant goals are more likely to lead to higher effort and persistence, as they are personally significant and contribute to an individual's self-fulfillment. These goals are related to the concept of cognitive dissonance, which is the psychological discomfort that arises when one's actions do not match one's self-perception. By setting goals that are self-concordant, individuals can minimize cognitive dissonance and increase the congruence between their beliefs and behaviors.
Furthermore, these concepts relate to the larger framework of goal-setting where goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). A self-concordant goal is more likely to satisfy these criteria because it is innately relevant and significant to the individual, thereby making it a more achievable and appropriate goal for them to pursue.