Developing a Financial Goals Chart
Developing a goal chart is your first step in attaining your goals.
1. First, think of and write down on a piece of paper one specific financial goal you have for yourself. Remember, goals should be specific and within your means of achieving them. Goals should also answer who, what, when, where, and why.
2. Then, write down as many ways you can think of to reach that goal. This could include cutting expenses, earning extra money, or finding resources that can help you achieve your goal.
3. Review your methods of reaching your goal and consider their advantages and disadvantages. Decide which ways are best for you and write them down.
4. Decide if your goal is short-term, intermediate-term, or long-term, and give a timeline for that goal. Remember, this can change anytime based on your situation.
5. Determine how much money you need to save to reach your goal and break down that amount by the month and/or year.
Now you know how to get started and what you'll need to do achieve that goal you've set. Here's a sample goal chart you can use as a model:
| Goal |
Ways to reach |
Term |
Total cost |
Required monthly savings |
| Get out of debt |
Cut expenses
Increase income |
2 yrs |
$7000 |
$291 |
Sure, you need to work hard to reach your goals. But part of the battle is constantly reminding yourself of your goals, as well as visualizing yourself achieving them. Consider the following example:
A college study involves three students, each asked to think of and write down their goals for that semester. The first student writes his goals down on a piece of paper, eventually loses it, and neglects to remind himself of his goals. The second student writes down her goals and reviews them every once in awhile. The third student writes his goals, makes ten copies, and strategically places them where he'll be able to see them every day--on his bedroom mirror, dresser, inside his car, and on a card inside his wallet. Which of these three do you think was most equipped to achieve his or her goals for the semester?
The third student positioned himself best to reach his goals by using constant positive motivational factors. Another method of helping you reach your goals is to rally the people in your life. Let those closest to you and those that you see frequently know how much your goals mean to you, and feed off their inspiration.
Remember, a positive attitude is key; therefore, accept no negativity because it can distract you from your goals. Think what WILL happen, not what WON'T happen. You'll be on your way to achieving your goals.
