Setting short-term goals will allow you to build momentum in pursuing bigger goals. They serve as stepping stones to reach your ultimate goals in life. While long-term goals are fine, they are called “long term” for a reason.
Short-term goals, on the other hand, will make you more productive by breaking down your work into small wins.
In this article, I will list 25 short-term goals examples to motivate you to reach for success in your life.
What Are Short-Term Goals?
Short-term goals are specific targets that you set and commit to achieving soon in the future. These types of goals are smaller and generally easier to reach than long-term goals.
For example, a short-term goal could be to “save $1000 in your savings account,” whereas a long-term goal of “saving $50,000 for a down payment on a house” is much harder.
Short-term goals are rewarding and keep you motivated to push on. Without them, it would be too easy to feel stuck in a rut.
Thus, remember that short-term goals are part of the bigger picture. They are essential to staying on track and the overall goal-setting process.
Short-Term Personal Goals
1. Spend More Time With Family
Family is the people you are closest to and can rely on the most. Whether it’s scheduling regular family nights, going on family vacations, or eating dinner together.
Family time will improve your communication skills and strengthen the bonds between family members.
2. Get Enough Sleep
Getting more sleep is crucial for your well-being. Due to a busy life schedule, many people don’t get enough sleep. This would result in tiredness throughout the day, and you also may experience trouble concentrating at work or school.
3. Reduce Screen Time
In today’s world, it’s easy to spend excessive time staring at screens—whether it’s your phone, computer, or TV. A fantastic goal is to spend less time on screens each day.
This can involve setting strict limits on how much time you spend on certain activities, such as social media or watching TV shows.
4. Develop Healthy Habits
To develop good habits, start by identifying the behaviors you want to change. Then, make a list of micro goals that you can work on.
Additionally, try to create a supportive environment for yourself. That might mean getting rid of tempting junk food or setting a reminder on your phone to eat a hearty breakfast every morning.
5. Start a Garden
Assuming you have space, a garden adds a touch of life and color to your home. It also gives you fresh produce without spending a fortune.
Just imagine yourself spending time outdoors in your garden. How relaxing of an experience is that? You won’t have any regrets when pursuing this short-term goal.
Short-Term Career Goals
1. Find a Mentor
Having a mentor will jumpstart your career and get you ahead in life. They can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career.
Consider looking for mentors through industry events or existing professional contacts. Once you have found a potential mentor, don’t be afraid to reach out to them.
2. Networking
Networking is another crucial aspect of career success. By networking with other professionals, you gain valuable connections that will serve you well in the future.
Hence, go ahead and reach out to industry professionals on social media to start building your network.
3. Develop Your Skills
Another excellent goal for your professional career is to develop your skill set. In this day and age, it’s more important than ever to ensure that you’re constantly learning and growing as a professional.
From taking courses to attending workshops, committing to improving your skills will make you stand out in the workplace. You’ll be better equipped to accomplish your long-term goals.
4. Improve Work-Life Balance
While you might be tempted to dive deep into your work, you should still have the goal of finding a balance between work and life.
The key to success is finding time for leisure outside of work. In other words, you shouldn’t ignore hobbies and relaxation. When you have a healthy work-life balance, you’ll be happier and more productive.
5. Keep Your Workspace Clean
With an organized workspace, you are more likely to be more effective at work. After all, having clutter in your environment may be a distraction.
Plus, it can be difficult to find your things when your desk is a complete mess. So create a goal of setting aside time to tidy up your workspace.
Short-Term Health Goals
1. Drink More Water
One of the best health goals you can set is to drink more water. Since water allows our body to function properly, this goal is not trivial. Drinking water will prevent dehydration and maintain your energy level so that you get through the day.
2. Get a Workout Buddy
Working out with a friend or family member will keep you motivated and on track with your fitness goals.
Having someone to talk to while working out can also make time go by faster. And if you don’t have anyone to work out with, there are plenty of online communities and forums where you can find workout buddies.
3. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
A simple health objective is to add more fruits and vegetables to your meals. This goal can create a more balanced diet and boost your overall wellness. The next time you’re in a grocery store, aim for healthier meals by buying vegetables and fruits.
4. Walk for 30 Minutes a Day
Anyone can easily get more exercise by walking 30 minutes each day. If you live close to work or the grocery store, try walking instead of driving.
You can also take a brisk stroll around your neighborhood park or go for a hike on the weekends. You don’t necessarily need to go to the gym to get active.
5. Join a Fitness Class
If you are looking to get into shape, consider joining a fitness class. Fitness classes are led by an instructor who can help you stay on track to achieving your health and fitness goals.
If you have trouble staying committed, taking a fitness class can force you out of your comfort zone.
Short-Term Academic Goals
1. Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities
Joining an extracurricular activity can add excitement to your school experience. It will be a great opportunity to meet new people from different walks of life.
There are plenty of activities you can choose from, so there is surely something that you can enjoy. You may want to talk to your teacher or the relevant coordinator to learn more about the available choices.
2. Join a Study Group
Another easy academic goal is to join a study group. Study groups can allow you to better understand the material, stay on top of deadlines, and make friends in your classes.
If you’re struggling to find a study group, ask your professor if they know of any students who might be interested in joining one.
3. Get to Know Your Professors
Knowing your professors better is an academic goal that can pay off in the long run. When you have a good relationship with a professor, they are likely to write you a positive letter of recommendation or help you with research opportunities.
To get to know your professors, try to consistently attend their office hours and participate in class discussions.
4. Create a Study Schedule
Creating a study schedule ensures you make the most of your time and get work done. When making your schedule, be sure to factor in time for socializing and other activities outside of academics.
On a final note, keep your study schedule realistic and try to stick to it as much as possible.
5. Practice Self-Care
All students should know that it’s essential to set aside personal time for themselves. Actively practicing self-care will ensure you focus effectively on your studies. You’ll be able to perform at your peak performance and see an improvement in grades.
Short-Term Financial Goals
1. Create a Budget Plan
A budget is a plan for how you will spend your money each month. When creating a budget, you will want to track your income and expenses to visualize where your money is going.
You may also want to set limits on expenses, such as entertainment or dining out, to save some extra money every month.
2. Save $1000
One of the best things you can do for your finances is to save more money. Having extra dough in your pockets won’t hurt; it will actually help you avoid getting into a financial pinch when unexpected expenses arise.
3. Invest for Retirement
If you don’t have a retirement account, now is the time to start one. Contributing even a small amount each month can compound over time. With that, you’ll be a step closer to financial freedom.
There are numerous retirement accounts available, so be sure to research and choose the one that best suits your needs.
4. Pay Off Credit Card Debt
If you have credit card debt, a solid financial goal is to pay it off as quickly as possible. Credit card debt can be costly, as most credit cards have high interest rates.
Since carrying a balance on your card can hurt your credit score, you should make paying off that debt a priority.
5. Open a Savings Account
A savings account is an excellent way of putting your money into a safety net. With a savings account, you can safely transfer money in case of unexpected emergencies.
Or, if you decide to help your kid set a short-term goal like this one, it will teach them the importance of saving money early on.
Final Thoughts
One fundamental part of goal setting is short-term goals. While long-term and intermediate goals are necessary, short-term goals are what push you to make daily progress.
Naturally, recognize that dedication will be required when attaining your goals. Don’t trick yourself into thinking that success will be handed to you on a silver platter.
As you take strides toward your ideal destination, you’ll feel inspired to walk further on this journey.
