Time Management - Goal Setting

Time Management methods most often incorporate some
element of the goal setting process, as a key
ingredient for overall effective use of time. Whether
in the personal or professional realm, goal setting is
an important aspect in becoming a productive
individual, who effectively manages time.

When speaking of "goals" this term will include any
number of specific tasks which need to be completed,
from household chores to major business proposals.
Tasks to be performed are referred to as either short,
medium, or long term goals, depending on the available
time the individual has to complete them.

Short term goals may be thought of as daily goals.
These often include everyday chores, as well as
projects which need to be completed immediately. In
effective time management a list of short terms goals
is formulated, and each goal on that list is
completed, on a daily basis.

Medium term goals are often goals that need to be
completed within one week to one month of time.
Depending on the amount of time required to complete
the goal, a medium term may be broken up into smaller
pieces, to be accomplished daily. For instance, a
project which will take 6 to 7 hours to complete can
be broken into pieces, requiring only 1 hour per day.

Long term goals can reflect major undertakings, such
as obtaining a college degree, building a new home, or
any number of other such goals. These goals are broken
down into daily, weekly, monthly and even yearly
goals.

For instance, to obtain a college degree in 4 years
the individual will need to research financial
options, register for classes, take and pass specific
subjects, complete homework assignments etc... Long term
goals are best managed when broken down into small
sections, each one a step toward completion of the
final goal.