Move the goalposts

Refers to the act of changing the rules or criteria for success in a project or initiative after they have been established. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as to make the goal easier to achieve, to accommodate new information, or to shift the focus of the project. Moving the goalposts can be frustrating for team members who have been working towards a specific goal, as it can make their efforts seem futile or meaningless. In some cases, it may also be viewed as unethical, particularly if it is done to create the illusion of progress or success where none exists.

A business coach sets clear goals for their client at the start of the coaching relationship. However, as the client progresses towards achieving those goals, the coach suddenly changes the criteria for success, effectively moving the goalposts. For example, a coach may tell a client that they need to increase their revenue by 20%, but once that goal is met, the coach may suddenly shift the focus to profit margins, making it difficult for the client to ever feel like they have truly achieved success.

Move the goalposts DEFINITION:

1.Move the goalposts means to change the requirements or standards of a task or project after it has begun. 2.Move the goalposts refers to the act of changing the rules or expectations in a way that makes success more difficult.