| Did you ever notice that people tell you how important it is to have goals, but never really say what they are or how to write them? That's because goals are really about who you are as a person (and, of course, they are different for everyone) and what you decide to do with your time and your life. You can't talk about goals without also talking about personal development, personal values, and your willingness to take control of your life (see another section on getting organized by identifying obstacles to time management).
OK, long term goals are simply a description of what you want for yourself in the future -- say about 3 to 5 years out. The best way to define them is to give examples: graduate college, get a good job, find a life partner, get rich quick, etc... A goal is not a plan, it's more like a wish list with (hopefully) a basis in reality.
So, imagine yourself in the future: Where are you living? Where are you working? (Don't be afraid to take a risk!) What does your lifestyle look like?
Once you have some long term ideas, back up a few months, years or whatever, to establish intermediate and short term objectives. These are the beginnings of a plan! For example, maybe you see yourself as a Doctor, nice home, car, 2.5 kids, yada, yada, yada... That means that you have to graduate college..., get good grades..., pass chemistry..., go to class..., get up in the morning...
Use the example below to establish some goals for yourself. Think of the time frame involved, and try to identify concrete steps that you can take to achieve your goals.
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