Goals can be classified into two main groups, namely, short-term goals and long-term goals. As the name implies, short-term goals are relatively easy-to-achieve and they can be accomplished within a shorter time frame. These are usually intermediate objectives that are necessary to achieve long-term goals. These goals are also typically in response to immediate or basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter.
Short-term vs. long-term goals
Long-term goals, on the other hand, are more difficult to accomplish and require careful planning. Achieving these goals need focus, dedication, and commitment. Some examples of long-term goals include taking degree courses, developing career paths, raising a family, and building wealth. Long-term goals have life-time consequences and could also affect other people.
Achieving short-term and long-term goals will depend on various factors. Accurately assessing the situation will determine which goals are achievable within specific deadlines. For example, a high school student dreaming to become a medical doctor cannot possibly achieve his or her long-term goal without first graduating from high school with good grades. Hence, the short-term or intermediate goal should be graduating from high school.
Situational assessment
Assessing current situation will allow an individual to adjust his or her strategies in consonance with the long-term or short-term objectives. It is either an individual adapts to the situation or change the situation when possible. Resources, talents, opportunities, distractions and threats should be identified. The level of commitment and dedication may also need to be adjusted.
Convergence
Success is often the result of the convergence of effort, talent and opportunity. The chance of failure or success will largely depend on how these three basic elements will be applied or controlled. Weakness in one aspect should be offset by the strengths in other aspects. For instance, if the opportunities are scarce such as in the case of poverty, effort and talent should be strengthened.
SWOT analysis
One useful tool that can be used for assessing situations is the SWOT analysis. This is actually more commonly used in strategic planning for business but it can also be used for personal goal setting and planning. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. By using a matrix system, a more accurate and objective analysis of a situation can be made.
Strengths: The strengths of an individual refer to the advantages that he or she possesses. These could include talents, attitude or character, connections, wealth and education.
Weaknesses: These refer to the disadvantages that may limit an individual from achieving goals. These may also negatively correspond to the positive traits or strengths. One example is low level of commitment or motivation
Opportunities: The available opportunities are oftentimes external and beyond the control of individuals to change. However, opportunities can be grabbed and exploited to provide extra leverage in achieving goals. Scholarships, jobs and capital loans are some examples of opportunities.
Threats: These are external factors that could derail the achievement of goals. These could include distractions, competitors, and catastrophic events.
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