Visualize yourself, as you see yourself, in five years. Where do you see yourself living? What do you see yourself doing? It’s possible that you’re already quite happy and satisfied in your life and you want your five year plan to continue on the path you’re already on. If that’s the case, think more about what you’ll need to continue living the way you enjoy.
Starting a novel Watching less television Quitting smoking Starting a band Getting more exercise
Saving more money Getting a graduate degree Asking for a promotion Starting a 401k Finding another job
Sky-diving, at least once Going on a blind date Hiking the Cumberland Gap Traveling abroad Going to a music festival
Having a child Saving money for your child’s education Starting your child in school Adding on to your home Moving to a larger home Going on a family vacation
In the margin of each list, label every item on the list either A, B, or C. Label an A goal as a goal that is extremely important to you and that you want or need the most. Label a C goal as something that would be nice to have, but isn’t something that you really want or need. If a goal is in between the two categories, label it a B goal. In order to find out what your priorities are, be as honest as possible.
If you identified, “Get a graduate degree” on your list as an important item, make a separate list for each goal that you identify as being very important, such as this. Even if it seems simple, something like, “Get organized,” it’s still important to treat that with as much attention as possible.
You might need to do a little research to find out for sure what needs to happen to turn your goals into a reality.
Try not to get discouraged. Remember, you’re thinking long term. Keep breaking down those big goals until they become a small series of things you can do. Set smart goals and make plans to accomplish them.
Periodically amend your list of goals to take into account these new observations and goals that come up. Revise your five year plan to account for the new information. This isn’t a failure, it’s a sign you’re learning more and getting closer to those goals.
