Setting Short-Term and Long-Term Goals
Knowing how to set goals, both short-term and long-term goals, is essential to your success. Here are some tips to get you started.
- Know the difference between short-term and long-term goals
Short-term goals are goals that can be achieved in the near future, like today, this week, this month, and this year. These goals are completable relatively quickly. Short-term goals may include daily work tasks, completing a career course, or reading a book every month. These goals can also be steps toward long-term goals.
A long-term goal is something want to achieve in the distant future and may require a couple of years to be achieved. Long-term goals may include a career position, opening a business, or a financial state. You want to take considerable measures to identify and evaluate these goals. Closely look at the reasoning behind your long-term goals. Ask yourself why you want to achieve these goals and whether it’s worthwhile to do so.
2. Set SMART goals.
The SMART formula sets you up for success in whatever the goal. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based. As you go through the SMART formula, you’ll want to be honest with yourself. Set realistic goals and hold yourself accountable using this system.
3. Break your long-term goals into short-term goals
By creating short-term goals out of long-term ones, the latter will feel less overwhelming. By achieving tangible results in the short-term, you’ll feel more motivated about your long-term goals and won’t lose sight of them.
4. Adjust your goals as needed
Sometimes life doesn’t always go to plan. Make sure to check in with yourself from time to time and see what is and isn’t working as you work towards your goals. It’s completely normal for your goals to change, so do some reflecting and adjust as you go.
