MENTAL MODEL · M1549

Moving the Goalposts

StructureHigh supportLogic

Included

Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

When the opponent successfully meets the standards you set, you unilaterally change the rules and raise the bar, ensuring the opponent never "measures up."

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

- PUA recognition: a common tactic of suppression in the workplace or intimate relationships. "You did A? That doesn't count; you also need to do B." Recognize this infinite game and stop it in time.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

When the other party meets the standard, unilaterally raising the standard so that the opponent never "measures up" is an unfair strategy (informal fallacy or manipulation) that maintains one's own advantage or continues to suppress others by changing the rules.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

First, identify the infinite escalation of "doing A is not enough
you also need B." Second, require locking in clear, stable standards in advance. Third, refuse to participate in a game without an end and stop it in time. Fourth, in negotiations, fix the acceptance criteria in writing.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

Learning progress0%

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Source support: Explicit

link
en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moving_the_goalpostsZH · Explicit
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