How to Plan for 2012 - Part 4

Sometimes life seems to go according to plan perfectly. You have a a wonderful significant other, you love your job and you just moved into a great apartment. However, it can be hard for life to go according to plan if you're unsure of your plan. Making a better plan for your life requires knowing your strengths and weaknesses and getting a firm grasp on your goals for both the near

Instructions

1. • 1

     Write down all of your assets, such as work experience or a high GPA during college. Write down all of your weaknesses, such as impatience or changing jobs too frequently.

   • 2

     Write down your short-term goals. Perhaps you want to make more money, have a more exciting romantic life or travel. Figure out what you want that you can change in the near future, and make these things into a list of goals.

   • 3

     Put a time frame on your goal. Take one goal at a time, and write down a list of specific actions you must take to achieve your goal. If your goal is to lose 15 pounds, write down that you must begin an exercise program, eat more vegetables and cut back on junk food. Perhaps you will walk around the neighborhood for one hour after work and switch from snacking on potato chips to snacking on baby carrots.

     While looking at your specific list of actions, estimate a reasonable time frame. Losing 15 pounds might take four months. Getting a promotion might take six months if you work hard and apply yourself. Repeat this step for all goals.

   • 4

     Make a list of long-term goals. Perhaps you want to change careers, go back to school or save up money for your first child.

   • 5

     Save money. If you are a single mother with little savings, you need to get your finances in order before quitting your job in hopes of changing careers.

   • 6

     Repeat step three for all of your long-term goals.

   • 7

     Refer to your list of goals and specific actions once a week to make sure you stay on track. If you find yourself unable to progress toward one goal, you might need to change your time frame or create a new set of steps for reaching your goal.

Posted in: