Objectives. This study explored the association between conditional goal setting (CGS; the tendency to view the achievement of high order goals for the self as conditional upon the achievement of lower order goals) and dispositional mindfulness.Design/methods. CGS and dispositional mindfulness were assessed in 31 depressed patients in a cross‐sectional design. Results. A significant association was identified between increased dispositional mindfulness and reduced CGS, which remained after controlling for severity of depressed mood. Conclusions. The results suggest that treatment interventions that increase levels of mindful awareness may have the capacity to reduce CGS in depressed patients.