five year plan assignment

13 5-Year Plan Templates & Worksheets for 2024

Need some help in achieving your dreams ?

If so, you might consider using the right goal-setting tools to create the life you want.

A five-year plan can change the way you set goals and help you find success.

To help you get started, we are sharing a collection of templates and worksheets to give you inspiration for creating a five-year plan template for yourself.

Table of Contents

The Main Advantage of Having a Five-Year Plan

“ A goal without a plan is just a wish ,” said French writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, author of the book The Little Prince .

Whether you’re thinking about developing your skills , beginning a project, or embarking on a new career path, having a five-year plan is the roadmap for achieving your goals .

Unlike a one-year plan, a five-year plan gives you ample time to do the proper groundwork and lay a strong foundation for what you want to achieve.

In addition, unlike a 10-year plan, a five-year plan gives you just the right amount of urgency to achieve your goals.

Delaying something you want to accomplish for a very long time often results in complacency and procrastination . It makes you forget the urgency of what you’re striving for.

A Quick Guide to Creating a Five-Year Plan

Worksheets and templates are quite useful when formulating a five-year plan. Prior to filling out your template, however, you need to consider and write down several important things:

• Identify your goals.
• Determine why you want to pursue these goals.
• Ask yourself, “ Do I have the necessary skills or resources to achieve these goals within five years? ”
• Research possible ways to achieve your goals within the next five years.
• Break down your major goals into actionable monthly and annual goals. These smaller goals are the springboard for achieving your major goals.
• Review your goals regularly. Revise as necessary and keep the processes that are working well.

Read on to check out the list of templates we have prepared for you.

1. The 5-Year Career Plan

This template is simple and effective, making it ideal for creating a five-year career plan.

It has space near the top of the page for stating your dream job.

In addition, there are corresponding spaces for writing your plans for the next five years. For every year, you can write your action plan on how to tackle your annual goals in three major aspects of your professional life:

2. Botanical Theme Future Life Plan

This botanical-themed template provides space for formulating your plan for a perfect future .

It has a column for a number of different timeframes, starting at the six-month mark.

There are also columns for specifying your exact vision, as well as a “How” column where you write down your plans for achieving this vision.

3. 5-Year Goal Plan  

This template is divided into 4 sections. The first section has 2 boxes where you can indicate, respectively, the start date of a goal and its date of completion.

In the next section, space is provided where you can write down your major goal and a few sentences of why it’s important.

The next section features 2 columns. In the first, you can write your action plans for your major goal. The second column is where you write the things that will help you achieve your goal.

In the last section, you can identify possible obstacles, as well as specify the reward you’ll receive for achieving your goal.

4. Life Plan Brain Dump  

This template serves as a brain dump for all your plans and ideas, allowing you to brainstorm your 5-year plan different areas of your life.

It has designated boxes for writing down specific goals in 1-year intervals for up to 5 years on the following areas of your life:

• Social /Family
• Health    

[Get inspired to create the life you want by checking out these awesome examples of life goals .]

5. Simple Long-Term Planning  

This template is designed to plan out your long-term goal and brainstorm supportive short-term goals to help you achieve it.

The template has more than enough space on the upper half of the page for writing out the details of a long-term goal. Meanwhile, the lower half portion has space dedicated for writing your action plan.

This involves listing down the specific short-term goals in support of the major long-term goal. There is a column featuring spaces for writing the due dates of each goal and also a bullet to tick once you’ve accomplished the goal.

6. Goal Setting Bundle  

This five-year planner bundle has everything you need to start creating the perfect life you envision for yourself.

It is designed to organize and improve your life while you stay on track with your goals.

The bundle contains seven pages, with templates for the following:

• The Importance of Goal Setting (Introduction and instructions for using the planner)
• I’m Grateful For (A writing exercise that develops a sense of gratitude)
• My Goals, My Vision For The Future (Envisioning your 5-year goals for different areas of your life)
• Take Action (Brainstorming a course of action for achieving your goals)
• My Why (Finding your purpose)
• Share (Writing exercise for identifying people to share goals with)

7. Planning Made Simple  

This template offers sufficient space for identifying your long-term goals and making them your priority. It features a writing prompt for a specific action plan to take when you’re feeling discouraged in the pursuit of your goals.

In addition, this template has spaces allocated for identifying and writing down 5 specific goals that allow you to achieve your main goal. Along with this are spaces for writing action steps for accomplishing each minor goal, as well as putting date when it’s going to be accomplished.

8. Thinking Through a Long-Term Dream

This template was designed by an accredited goal-setting coach and allows you to create a plan for realizing a major long-term goal.

It features a very detailed approach to accomplish your goal.

This template provides a huge amount of space for writing down your specific goal. There is also space allocated for writing down the projected date of completion.

In addition, there are spaces for:

• A checklist of action steps (up to 10 steps)
• A list of resources for accomplishing your goal
• The start date of working toward your goal
• The reason for having this goal
• The key qualities you possess that will help you succeed

9. 7 Areas of Life Goal Worksheet  

This simple yet effective template helps you create a five-year plan for different areas of your life.

There are columns for writing down your short-, medium-, and long-term goals for the following categories:

10. Life Goals for Adulting

It’s not always easy to be a responsible adult. [ Here are some adulting tips if you’re feeling stuck. ]

For young people, this template is great for helping organize their lives and clarifying their long-term plans.

This template features three columns for three types of major goals, namely:

• Five-Year Goals
• Daily Goals

For every column, spaces are provided for writing down goals in the following categories:

• Bucket List
• Financial/Equity
• Family/Social

Meanwhile, this post can help if you need some quick and actionable tips for organizing your life and keeping it organized .

11. My Life Plan Template

According to an article published in Time , having goals is one way of becoming more satisfied with life.

Here is a five-year template that has been designed to increase your level of life satisfaction.

It is quite detailed and provides prompts for a thorough reflection of what you really want out of life.

Some things you need to write in this template include:

• Your life’s motto
• Long-term goals
• What you must achieve this year
• What you must achieve in five years’ time

For the long-term goals and five-year plan, the template has spaces where you can write your reflections about what’s working and what’s not in your overall plan.

12. Your Strategic Future By Design

If you’re looking for a pink-themed template, this one is worth considering. It has spaces for writing up to five major goals.

For each goal, the template provides columns for identifying:

• Where you are right now (your current situation)
• Where you want to be (goals, dreams, ambitions)
• How you can get there (essential steps you need to take to fulfill your goals)

13. A Life Plan Worksheet  

This worksheet allows you to plot out a long-term plan for different areas of your life to get you started in living the life you’ve always wanted.

It has 8 sections where you can write down your goals related to:

• Physical Health
• Mental Health
• Spirituality
• Relationships

Aside from seeing your plans come to fruition, it’s wonderful to have something tangible to look forward to when you accomplish your goals.

You can take note of specific rewards for accomplishing each of your goals. If you need inspiration, check out amazing Ways to Reward Yourself for Reaching Your Goals .

Final Thoughts on Using a Five-Year Plan Template

A solid plan for achieving your goals gets you much closer to success.

By carefully breaking down your plan into manageable goals that you can achieve annually, you’re well on your way to living the life you’ve always wanted.

We hope that this collection has given you inspiration, and that you have found a five-year plan template that works for you.

All the best with your plans!

Finally, here are some additional resources about goal-setting that you might want to check out:

• 155 Ways to Reward Yourself for Reaching Your Goals
• 13 Free Goal-Setting & Tracking Printables for 2022
• Free Printable SMART Goals Worksheet
• 11 Printable Monthly Goals Templates & Worksheets
• 10 Goal-Setting Activities to Achieve Whatever You Want
• 35 Summer Goals: A List to Set for 2022
• 7 Types of Goal Categories to Set and Achieve in 2022

Daring Leadership Institute: a groundbreaking partnership that amplifies Brené Brown's empirically based, courage-building curriculum with BetterUp’s human transformation platform.

What is Coaching?

Types of Coaching

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Find your coach

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

How to build a 5-year plan that works for you

Jump to section

What is a 5 year plan?

The benefits of creating a 5 year plan

How to create a 5 year plan in 6 easy steps

5 year plan examples

What if you could create a roadmap to the life you’ve always envisioned? A five-year plan offers exactly that—a strategic guide to help you define your long-term goals and take actionable steps to achieve them. Whether you’re focusing on career goals, building financial stability, or improving your work life, a well-crafted plan transforms vague aspirations into concrete outcomes.

More than just a list of tasks, a five-year plan combines effective goal setting with a clear structure, helping you stay motivated, organized, and aligned with your vision. By breaking big dreams into short-term goals and manageable milestones, you can track your progress, identify gaps, and navigate challenges while maintaining balance in your personal and professional life.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to create your own career plan or personal growth strategy. From setting meaningful goals to identifying your priorities, you’ll learn actionable strategies and see real-world examples to inspire your journey. Let’s get started on designing the next five years of your life!

What is a 5-year plan?

A 5-year plan is a strategic roadmap for systematically achieving personal or professional goals over a five-year period.

A 5-year plan is essential because it transforms vague aspirations into structured, actionable goals , providing a strategic roadmap that systematically guides personal and professional growth while maintaining focus and motivation over an extended period.

The benefits of creating a 5-year plan

Here are 8 benefits of having a 5-year plan:

• Provides clarity by transforming abstract goals into concrete, actionable steps .
• Creates a motivational framework that keeps you focused and committed to long-term objectives.
• It helps you use your resources (i.e. time and money) wisely and prioritize better.
• Develops adaptability by encouraging regular review and adjustment of strategies as circumstances evolve.
• Enhances decision-making by offering a clear benchmark against which to evaluate opportunities and challenges.
• Builds personal accountability by establishing measurable milestones and tracking progress.
• Reduces anxiety about the future by offering a sense of direction and purposeful progression.
• Promotes holistic personal and professional development by encouraging intentional growth across multiple life domains.

What should be included in a 5 year plan? 

A 5-year plan should include a detailed roadmap for achieving your personal and professional goals . It should encompass key areas of your life, breaking goals into manageable steps while staying flexible to adapt as needed. 

Grab a pen and a piece of paper. Visualize your life 5 years from now, and write down everything you see without thinking or judging . If any fears, doubts, or negative emotions come up, don’t fret. Allow yourself to dream.

1. A vision statement

Articulate your ideal future in 5 years. This should reflect:

• What you want to achieve
• How you want to feel
• The values you want to live by

2. Key life categories

To ensure a balanced plan, consider goals in these areas :

• Career/business : Desired job or business goals (e.g., promotions, certifications, starting a company), and skills to develop or positions to attain
• Financial : Savings, investments, debt repayment, or earning goals
• Health : Physical fitness, nutrition, mental well-being, or lifestyle changes
• Personal growth : Education, hobbies, spirituality, or personal development goals.
• Environment/home : Living situations, renovations, or creating an inspiring workspace.
• Recreation : Travel, hobbies , or activities that bring joy
• Service : Volunteer work, mentoring, or ways to give back to your community

3. SMART or HARD goals

Use SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound) for clear, actionable steps. Alternatively, use HARD Goals (Heartfelt, Animated, Required, Difficult) for ambitious, emotionally driven objectives.

4. Action steps

Break each goal into actionable steps, including monthly milestones for tracking progress and long-term steps for major goals (e.g., earning a degree or starting a business ).

5. Timeline and milestones

Create a timeline to stay on track. Try a year-by-year breakdown of major goals. Also do quarterly or monthly checkpoints to measure your progress.        

6. Resources needed

List tools, skills, or support required to reach your goals. Include certifications or education , networking opportunities or mentors , and financial resources or savings plans

7. Contingency plans

Identify potential obstacles and solutions for setbacks:

Example 1: Obstacle : Lack of time for education. Solution : Take online courses with flexible scheduling.

Example 2: Obstacle : Unexpected expenses. Solution : Build an emergency savings buffer.

8. Tracking and adjustments

Regularly review and revise your plan. Evaluate what’s working and what’s not. Remember to celebrate small wins and recalibrate if goals or priorities change.

How to create a 5-year plan in 6 easy steps

• Choose your focus
• Consider potential goals
• Determine your 'why?'
• Identify annual goals and create monthly goals
• Research how to reach your goals
• Adjust and revisit as needed

Here’s how to use your notes to create your plan:

1. Choose your focus

Start by reviewing your notes and deciding which areas of your personal life and career to focus on. Select specific categories that align with your long-term goals, whether it’s health, career, or finances.

• Write each area on top of a separate piece of paper.
• For example, if focusing on health and finance, label one page "Health" and another "Finance."

2. Consider potential goals

For each area, divide your paper into two columns: one for goals and one for action steps or skills. Write down what you want to achieve and how you’ll accomplish it.

• Use SMART goals to ensure your objectives are specific, measurable, and time-bound, but challenge yourself with HARD (heartfelt, animated, required, and difficult) goals for greater focus and motivation.
• Goals: Eat clean, be more active, and eat more nutrients.
• Action steps: Eat three servings of raw fruits/vegetables daily, walk two hours a day, and add superfoods to smoothies.

Short-term vs. long-term goals

• Identify which goals are short-term and which are long-term .
• Example : Becoming a teacher in Peru might be a long-term goal, while researching places to live there could be a short-term goal.

3. Determine your 'why'

Write a statement explaining why your goals matter and display it somewhere visible to stay motivated.

• Example : “Because I believe education should be accessible to everyone, I want to teach English in Peru to help students learn Spanish and explore South America.”

4. Identify annual and monthly goals

Break down your five-year goals into annual goals and then further into monthly milestones to stay on track.

• Year 1: Research programs and complete certification.
• Months 1-3: Take a TEFL course and write essays.
• Month 4: Pass the final exam.
• Month 6: Start an internship.
• Months 9-10: Secure a job and prepare for relocation.

5. Research how to achieve your goals

Explore resources to close gaps in knowledge or skills.

• Moving to Peru? Watch YouTube videos for tips.
• Starting a business? Meet with experts.
• Learning to bake? Get a cookbook, watch videos, or take a class.

6. Adjust and revisit as needed

Life evolves, and so will your priorities. Periodically review your five-year plan to ensure it aligns with your personal goals, career plan , and long-term vision.

• Reflect on progress at least once annually.
• Revise short-term tasks if roadblocks arise or interests shift.
• Example : If online interviews with a Peruvian academy are unfeasible, consider flying there earlier.

Staying flexible will help you accomplish your five-year plan while maintaining focus and motivation.

Tips to build and progress through your 5-year plan

These practical tips help ensure consistent progress toward your 5-year plan, combining reflection, accountability, and adaptability to keep you on track. 

• Set monthly and annual reviews : Schedule regular check-ins to assess your progress. These reviews help you celebrate wins, identify roadblocks, and adjust your plan as needed.
• Break goals into small tasks : Divide long-term goals into short-term, manageable steps. Tackling one task at a time keeps momentum going and prevents overwhelm.
• Track progress with a journal : Reflect daily or weekly on milestones, challenges, and lessons learned. Journaling reinforces motivation and keeps your "why" front and center.
• Use visual tools for motivation : Create a vision board or use Gantt charts to visualize your progress. These tools make your goals tangible and help maintain focus.
• Leverage coaching or mentorship : Work with a coach or mentor to gain guidance and accountability . Platforms like BetterUp can help you align actions with your long-term plan.
• Adapt your plan as needed : Stay flexible when life throws unexpected challenges your way. Adjust timelines or priorities while keeping sight of your long-term goals.
• Stay motivated with rewards : Celebrate small achievements along the way. Rewarding yourself helps maintain enthusiasm and makes the journey more enjoyable.
• Create accountability systems : Share your goals with a trusted friend or mentor. Regular check-ins with an accountability partner can keep you focused and committed.
• Focus on consistency over perfection : Aim for steady progress rather than trying to achieve everything perfectly. Small, consistent actions lead to big results over time.
• Invest in tools and resources : Use apps, planners, or templates to organize your plan. Educational resources like books or courses ( or partnering with a coach ) can help you close skill gaps and stay on track.

5-year plan examples

1. personal growth: building resilience and practicing mindfulness.

Goal : Develop emotional resilience and establish a daily mindfulness practice.

• Attend an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course
• Download a meditation app and complete daily 10-minute sessions
• Read three books on emotional resilience
• Practice mindfulness for 20 minutes daily, increasing focus and duration
• Join a local meditation or yoga group for community support
• Track emotions in a journal to identify triggers and growth areas
• Complete a 3-day silent meditation retreat
• Take an online emotional intelligence (EQ) certification course
• Begin sharing mindfulness tips with friends or colleagues for accountability
• Lead a mindfulness workshop at work or in your community
• Start journaling weekly about personal growth milestones
• Commit to at least one mindfulness-focused vacation or retreat
• Reflect on progress through a personal growth scrapbook or timeline
• Mentor someone beginning their mindfulness journey
• Expand daily mindfulness practices to include gratitude exercises and affirmations

2. Career growth: becoming a senior software engineer

Goal : Transition from a mid-level developer to a senior software engineer role.

• Enroll in an advanced coding bootcamp specializing in Python and AI
• Complete three new technical certifications (e.g., AWS Solutions Architect, Kubernetes)
• Seek mentorship from a senior engineer at your company
• Build and publish an open-source project on GitHub
• Contribute regularly to technical forums or communities like Stack Overflow
• Present at an internal company tech workshop
• Apply for cross-functional team projects to build leadership skills
• Attend a major tech conference
• Take a course on soft skills, such as effective communication for engineers
• Lead a project end-to-end, including mentoring junior developers
• Publish an article or case study in a tech journal or blog
• Update your portfolio and LinkedIn with significant achievements
• Apply for senior engineer roles within or outside your organization
• Deliver a talk at a tech meetup or industry event
• Negotiate for a higher salary or additional benefits in your new role

3. Financial goal: saving $50,000 for a home down payment

Goal : Save $50,000 in five years for a down payment on a home.

• Open a high-yield savings account and deposit $1,000 to start
• Create a budget to identify $500/month in savings from discretionary spending
• Sell unused items online to contribute an extra $2,000 by year-end
• Automate monthly transfers of $500 to your savings account
• Take on a side gig (e.g., freelancing, tutoring) to add $200/month to savings
• Save your tax refund and bonuses, aiming for an extra $3,000 this year
• Reduce fixed costs by negotiating better rates on utilities and subscriptions
• Contribute $6,000 from side income and $500/month from regular savings
• Start researching affordable housing markets and first-time buyer programs
• Attend home-buying workshops to learn about loans and grants
• Negotiate for a raise or promotion to earn an additional $4,000
• Increase savings to $600/month by reducing dining out or other luxuries
• Finalize your savings of $50,000
• Secure mortgage pre-approval and meet with a realtor
• Begin house-hunting and make an offer on your dream home

Changing your life with a 5-year plan

Creating a 5-year plan is one of the most powerful ways to take control of your future and achieve your goals. Whether you’re focusing on personal growth, career advancement, or financial stability , having a clear vision and actionable steps keeps you motivated and aligned with your long-term aspirations. You can stay focused, track progress, and adapt as needed by breaking down your dreams into manageable tasks.

However, staying consistent and accountable can be challenging without the right support.

That’s where working with a BetterUp Coach can make all the difference. A BetterUp coach provides personalized guidance, helping you refine your goals, overcome roadblocks, and stay motivated every step of the way. With expert insights and tools tailored to your unique plan, you’ll have the clarity and confidence to achieve the life you envision.

Shape your future with a coach

Unlock your potential and achieve your 5-year goals with personalized coaching tailored to your aspirations.

Sami Ramirez, MSc, PCC

Sami Ramirez, MSc, PCC, is an executive coach specializing in holistic leadership development. With over 13 years in the tech industry and an MSc in Marketing, Sami has dedicated her coaching career to transforming corporate environments. Her upcoming book draws on her extensive experience coaching top performers, guiding them to rediscover balance, purpose, and fulfillment. Sami’s passion lies in enhancing emotional intelligence, intentional execution, and strong confidence grounded in self-awareness, empowering leaders to lead with compassion and clarity. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, Sami also holds a diploma in Organizational Development from HEC Montreal.

Life planning: The ultimate guide (and template) to transform your life

Setting goals for success: 8 steps to actually achieve them, what is a short-term goal 44 examples to jump-start your year, 41 tips to stay motivated even when it gets tough, 5 long-term goals examples (+ tips to achieve them), 9 meaningful life goals to pursue for long-term fulfillment, long-term versus short-term goals: use both to succeed, the 3 year plan: build a roadmap to success, 19 health goals to help you feel better, top 33 professional goals and how to achieve them, create a networking plan in 7 easy steps, how to write a professional development plan for career success, how to make an action plan to achieve your goals and follow it, 15 tips for your end-of-year reviews, 15 leadership challenges you need to take this year, how to write a 10 year plan (with examples) and reach your goals, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead™
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care®
• BetterUp AI Coaching
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case studies
• ROI of BetterUp
• What is coaching?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Personal Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• Content library
• BetterUp Briefing
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

101 Best 5-Year Goals Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

5-Year Goals are considered intermediate to long-term goals, but they’re close enough that we can visualize them easily, get motivated to get started immediately, and maintain focused .

This is the sweet spot where you can aim big, but also actually realize your dreams in not too much time.

It takes about 5 years to do big things, like earning a PhD, rise in the ranks in your career, save up for a house downpayment, and so much more.

Below are some 5-year goals to get your mind turning, set out using SMART goals principles. I’ll explain the S.M.A.R.T goals acronym at the end of this article and provide a printable template for you to use, as well, so don’t miss that at the end.

5-Year Goals Examples

Career goals.

1. Job Advancement: Obtain a promotion to a management position within the current organization by seeking additional responsibilities and excelling in them.

2. Professional Development : Earn an advanced degree related to current occupation (such as an MBA for a finance professional) within the next five years.

3. Networking : Attend at least two industry-specific conferences or events annually to build a broad professional network.

4. Skills Acquisition: Learn two new job-specific skills every year to increase versatility and efficiency (For instance, a web developer might aim to master Angular and React frameworks).

5. Career Change: Transition to a fulfilling career in environmental science by undertaking a part-time course and gaining relevant certifications by the end of the 5-year period.

6. Career Milestone: Successfully lead a major project or initiative that sees completion and positive results within the organization by Year 5.

7. Workplace Influence: Earn a seat on an influential committee or board at the workplace within the five-year timeframe.

8. Public Speaking: Give at least two presentations at industry conferences every year, thereby improving public speaking and presentation skills.

9. Salary Increase: Aim to increase current salary by 20% through promotions or role revisions over the next five years.

10. Published Author: Write a book relevant to your profession or industry and get it published by the expiry of the 5-year period.

11. Start a Business: Launch a small consulting firm within the existing profession after bolstering your expertise and network for the next five years.

12. Tech-Savvy: Gain proficiency in three new software or tech tools relevant to your role each year, filling up the tech toolkit with 15 new skills by Year 5.

13. Industry Recognition: Win an industry-specific award or recognition by consistently performing above and beyond in your job role throughout the five years.

14. Intellectual Property: Contribute to company innovation by filing for at least one patent related to your work by the end of the five-year period.

15. Enterprise Leadership: Establish a leadership role in your organization by positively influencing change or improvement in enterprise-wide policies or procedures within the planned five years.

See Also: Long-Term Career Goals

Health and Fitness Goals

16. Regular Exercise: Implement a daily exercise routine and stick to it, aiming to work out at least five days a week.

17. Weight Management: Reach and maintain a healthy body weight after a careful evaluation with a healthcare professional.

18. Strength Training: Incorporate strength training into a weekly workout protocol twice or more.

19. Healthy Eating: Transition to a well-balanced diet, incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains daily.

20. Chronic Disease Management: Successfully manage any chronic diseases (like hypertension or diabetes) with healthy practices and routine check-ups with a medical professional.

21. Mental Health: Prioritize mental health by setting aside time each day for activities like meditation, journaling, or quiet reading.

22. Flexibility: Improve flexibility with regular stretching or yoga, aiming to be able to perform key flexibility tests successfully in five years.

23. Marathon Runner: Train for and successfully complete a full marathon.

24. Regular Check-Ups: Keep up-to-date with routine medical and dental checkups, ensuring all vaccinations are current and all recommended screenings are completed.

25. Adequate Sleep: Achieve a stable sleep schedule that ensures at least seven hours of rest each night.

26. Hydration: Drink a minimum of eight glasses of water per day, tracking this habit for consistency.

27. Quit Unhealthy Habits: Let go of any detrimental habits, like excessive caffeine, junk food, or prolonged screen time.

28. Cardio Fitness: Improve cardiovascular health significantly, as reflected in improved numbers in medical check-ups or ability to perform more strenuous exercise.

29. Outdoors Activity: Incorporate outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or swimming into your monthly routine, aiming to spend more time in nature for added health benefits.

30. Stress Management: Implement efficient stress management techniques (such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or a hobby) to maintain a better-balanced, healthier state of mind.

Also Consider: Setting Ten-Year Goals

Financial Goals

3 1. Debt Reduction: Create a strategic plan to pay off significant debts, like student loans or credit card balances, within five years.

32. Emergency Fund: Save six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund.

33. Investment Portfolio: Build a diversified investment portfolio with stocks, bonds, and other assets after seeking sound financial advice.

34. Retirement Savings: Contribute consistently to a retirement account with the goal of maximizing the employer-matched funding percentage, if applicable.

35. Home Purchase: Save for a down payment for a house, targeting a budget-friendly home that suits your personal and possible family needs.

36. Insurance Coverage: Review and optimize insurance coverages (home, health, auto) to ensure you’re not overpaying but still adequately protected.

37. Credit Score: Work towards achieving a credit score above 750, taking steps to correct any inaccuracies and to pay all bills on time.

38. Budgeting: Stick to a strict monthly budget, tracking every expense to ensure you’re living within your means and saving sufficiently.

39. Charitable Donations: Dedicate a part of your annual income for charitable donations, contributing to causes you deeply care about.

40. Financial Literacy: Take courses or read books on financial management to enhance your understanding of taxes, investments, and retirement planning.

41. Child’s Education Fund: Start a college fund for your child, if applicable, contributing a set amount each month or annually.

42. Reduce Housing Costs: Refinance your mortgage (if you have one) to take advantage of low interest rates and reduce your monthly payments.

43. Professional Growth: Invest in professional development or advanced education to warrant increased earning potential.

44. Vacation Fund: Save a targeted amount for a dream vacation in five years, setting aside a specific sum every month.

45. Second Income: Explore and establish a passive income stream, like rental income or online business, to boost overall earnings.

Hobby Goals

46. Language Learning: Become fluent in a foreign language through consistent study and practice.

47. Musical Instrument: Learn to play a musical instrument proficiently, such as the piano or guitar.

48. Cooking Mastery: Master the art of cooking, aiming to conquer diverse cuisines and complex dishes.

49. Reading Prowess: Read 50 seminal works in literature over the next five years.

50. Green Thumb: Develop a vibrant garden, nurturing a variety of plants and vegetables over five years.

51. Photography: Improve photography skills to the point of organizing a small exhibition or publishing a photo book.

52. Painting: Complete an important project like creating a series of paintings for local exhibitions or auctions.

53. Writing: Write and self-publish a book or a series of short stories.

54. Dancing Proficiency: Become proficient in a specific style of dance by taking regular classes or lessons.

55. Fitness Enthusiast: Master a challenging sport or physical activity like rock climbing or martial arts.

56. Wine Tasting: Gain substantial knowledge about wine varieties, graduating to conducting informative wine tasting sessions.

57. Crafting Skills: Learn and master a specific craft, like pottery or knitting, producing a substantial number of pieces.

58. Astronomy: Learn about space and celestial bodies and aim to identify all constellations in the night sky.

59. Expert Gamer: Master a particular video game, aiming for high scores in national or global leaderboards.

60. Traveling: Visit all continents within the next five years, experiencing different cultures and expanding your global perspective.

See Also: Goals for Life Examples

Student and Educational Goals

61. Degree Completion: Accomplish graduation in your chosen field within the given timeframe.

62. GPA Achievement: Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher throughout your academic journey.

63. Scholarship Attainment: Secure a scholarship or grant, reducing financial stress related to educational costs.

64. Internship: Garner relevant professional experience by landing and succeeding in at least two internships during your course of study (see also: internship goals examples ).

65. Research Paper: Participate in a major research project and get a research paper published in a reputable journal.

66. Study Abroad: Plan and execute a semester abroad, experiencing and learning from a new cultural environment.

67. Volunteer Service: Engagement in regular volunteer activities, contributing to societal and personal growth.

68. Networking: Actively build a professional network by attending career fairs and using platforms like LinkedIn.

69. Language Proficiency: Become proficient in a foreign language, expanding your global connectivity.

70. Time Management: Develop excellent time management skills to balance academic, personal and social life efficiently.

71. Relevant Skills: Master relevant software or tools related to your chosen profession. (For instance, coding languages for computer science students).

72. Public Speaking: Improve your public speaking skills by participating in oration activities or joining a campus debate club.

73. Leadership Role: Secure a leadership role in a campus organization or club, honing transferable skills like team management and problem-solving.

74. Post-Graduation Plan: Have a post-graduation plan in place by Year 4, be it employment, further studies or entrepreneurship.

75. Comprehensive Resume Portfolio: Develop a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your academic projects, internships, skills, and achievements, ready to present to potential employers or postgraduate admission panels.

See Also: Long-Term Goals for Students

Personal Goals

76. Communication Skills : Sharpen communication skills for ease in social and professional settings, focusing particularly on active listening and clear articulation.

77. Healthy Relationships: Cultivate and preserve quality relationships with friends and family, ensuring frequent contact and valuable interactions.

78. Life Balance: Achieve a solid work-life balance by generating set boundaries and pledging attention to each life area.

79. Personal Development: Invest in personal growth through regular reading, podcasts, or webinars on self-improvement.

80. Mental Wellness: Prioritize mental wellness, incorporating mindfulness and regular emotional check-ins into your daily routine.

81. Sustainable Lifestyle: Shift to a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing waste, recycling, and using eco-friendly products.

82. Cultural Awareness: Improve cultural literacy by studying and appreciating various global cultures, to better understand global diversity.

83. Conflict Resolution: Learn effective conflict resolution strategies for dealing with personal and professional disputes.

84. Anger Management: Develop an effective anger management strategy that helps maintain emotional equilibrium in high-stress situations.

85. Journaling: Start maintaining a personal journal to record thoughts, ideas, and experiences, fostering self-expression and introspection.

86. Personal Style: Develop personal style, ensuring it is an authentic reflection of your personality and preference.

87. Cooking Skill: Become proficient in cooking, mastering a diverse menu of dishes.

88. Digital Detox: Regularly schedule time to disconnect from digital devices, reinforcing balanced mental health and improved personal relationships.

89. Emotional Intelligence: Enhance your emotional intelligence by recognizing, understanding, and managing your emotions effectively.

90. Self-love: Nurture self-love, practicing self-care, and regularly setting aside “me” time.

See Also: A List of Long-Term Personal Goals

Family Goals

91. Quality Time: Commit to spending quality time together as a family at least once a week, regardless of what activities take place.

92. Family Traditions: Establish and embrace meaningful family traditions that can become an anticipated part of each year’s celebrations.

93. Shared Meals: Aim to have meals together as a family on most days, cultivating open communication and strengthening bonds.

94. Financial Stability: Generate a sound family financial plan, securing stability and potential for long-term goals like retirement or children’s education.

95. Annual Vacations: Plan and execute an annual family vacation, letting the destination or activities cater to everyone’s preferences.

96. Home Projects: Undertake home-based projects together, such as home improvement or gardening, encouraging cooperation and a shared sense of accomplishment.

97. Health Habits: Foster healthy habits within the family, such as eating balanced meals, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

98. Emergency Plan: Formulate a comprehensive family emergency plan, ensuring all family members know what to do in case of natural disasters or accidents.

99. Regular Communication: Uphold regular communication within the family, maintaining an open platform for discussions and problem-solving. (You might want to see my detailed article on communication goals for similar examples .)

100. Conflict Resolution: Develop a constructive approach for resolving conflicts within the family, promoting harmony and understanding.

101. Family Reunions: Organize a family reunion at least once in the five-year period, building bonds with extended family members.

How to set SMART 5-Year Goals

Once you have selected a few goals from the above list that resonate with you, it’s time to build them out using the SMART goals framework .

S.M.A.R.T is an acronym that explains five key elements you want in a well-crafted goal:

• Specific: Research shows being specific when writing down your goals increases your likelihood of achieving your goals (Milne, Orbell & Sheeran, 2002).
• Measurable: You need to be able to measure goal progress and know when you’ve achieved success. This could be a goal weight if you want to lose weight, a goal GPA at school, etc.
• Achievable: Generally, I recommend you balance your goal out so it’s not too easy, not too hard – you think it’s achievable with effort. But with 5-year goals, I encourage my students to think a little bigger than they otherwise would. We tend to underestimate what we can get done within five years.
• Relevant: Your goals should be relevant to the bigger picture. When it comes to 5-year goals, make it relevant to your phase of life. If you’re in your early 20s, it might have to do with travel or education. If you’re in your 30s and 40s, it might be more about family or building up a nest egg for retirement.
• Time-Based: This one’s easy. Set 5 years as the end date when the goal needs to have been achieved! But, you could also put in place short-term goals as well, which will act as milestones on the way to your 5-year plan .

Use the following template to turn your goal into a SMART goal, which will help you to build out your goal setting:

Get the Google Docs Template Here

Bill Gates once said, “most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in five years.”

Well, he said ten years. But the same goes for the 5-year plan: we can get a lot done in 5 years. We can achieve things that are well over our horizon. So, dream big and believe that if you work hard every day, you can get anything done within 5 years!

Davis, W. D., Mero, N., & Goodman, J. M. (2007). The interactive effects of goal orientation and accountability on task performance.  Human Performance ,  20 (1), 1-21. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/08959280709336926

Daw, N. D. (2015). Of goals and habits. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112 (45), 13749-13750. doi: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1518488112

Doran, G. T. (1981). There’s a S.M.A.R.T. Way to Write Management’s Goals and Objectives. Journal of Management Studies , 70-75.

Ehrlich, C., & Milston, S. (2021). Happiness through goal setting: A practical guide to reflect on and change the reasons why you pursue your most important goals in life . London: Routledge.

Latham G.P., Locke E.A. (2018) Goal Setting Theory. In The SAGE Encyclopedia of Industrial and Organizational Psychology . London: SAGE.

Milne, S., Orbell, S., and Sheeran, P. (2002). Combining Motivational and Volitional Interventions to Promote Exercise Participation: Protection Motivation Theory and Implementation Intentions,  British Journal of Health Psychology,   7 (2): 163–184. Doi:  https://doi.org/10.1348/135910702169420

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Free Social Skills Worksheets
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• High School
• You don't have any recent items yet.
• You don't have any courses yet.
• You don't have any books yet.
• You don't have any Studylists yet.
• Information

5 year plan Completed - 5-year plan example. This assignment is a thoroughly descriptive outline of

Special problems-portfolio dev (fcsc 4750), north carolina central university, students also viewed.

• BIology chapter 9 notes
• Microb 4 ch01 - Multiple choices
• Adapted Sport Presentation
• Foot, Ankle, and a lower leg
• Body structure vocabulary
• Investing for Retirement

Related documents

• Biology chapter 2 Notes
• Chapter 4 Notes
• Chapter 6 Notes
• Chapter 1 Notes
• Chp. 1 Vocab
• Chapter 5 Assingment (1)

Preview text

Name: Cieara Walker

Date:03/30/ Education: B.S Behavioral and Social Science Undergrad: December 2023 North Carolina Central University_____________________________ Graduate:

1 from North Carolina Central University in Fall of 2023

• I want to be accepted in to a MSW program by Fall 2024

3 from master’s program by 2026

Method/Activity/Resources to Achieve Goals Goal 1: Pass spring 23 Semester.

Take 2 summer courses in session I.

Meet with my advisor and select final course for fall 23 semesters.

Apply for graduation.

Obtain 2-3 references from Faculty and my job.

Apply to MSW program at top 5 schools of my choice.

Submit application fee by deadline.

Goal 3: Attend MSW program in fall of 2024

Earn no more than one C on transcript

Complete social work cap stone project over the course of two years.

Complete clinical hours

Target Date for accomplishing Goals Date Goals Completed

Goal 1 Target date : November 20, 2023 Goal 2 target date : November 30, Goal 3 target date: December 2026

Graduation date: December 9, 2023 Application deadline : Jan 15, 2024 Graduation Date : December 2026

Outcomes/Revisions

I will graduate undergrad by the deadlines listed. I will be accepted into a Graduate studies program by the deadline. There is no Plan B as Plan A will and MUST work.

• Multiple Choice

Course : Special Problems-Portfolio Dev (FCSC 4750)

University : north carolina central university.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Forums Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• Personal Development
• Personal Goals

Writing a 5-Year Plan: Best Tips & Examples to Get You Started

Last Updated: May 28, 2024 Fact Checked

Creating a 5-Year Plan

What is a 5-year plan, benefits of a 5-year plan, sample 5-year plans, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 796,936 times.

If you have ideas for things you want to accomplish in your life, a 5-year plan can help you get to where you want to go. A 5-year plan allows you to plot out specific, concrete steps that will help you create the life you envision—but how do you get started? We talked to life and career coach Shannon O'Brien for tips on how you can get your life on track with a 5-year plan.

Writing an Achievable 5-Year Plan

• Visualize yourself in 5 years. Note the changes that need to happen to get you there.
• Find your "why"—the reason you want to accomplish these goals.
• Learn what resources and knowledge you need to accomplish your goals.
• Create specific, measurable short-term goals to work toward your larger goals.

• Think about improvements you might like to see in areas like your health, relationships, career, family, community, religion or spirituality, or hobbies and recreation.
• For example, if you see yourself as a physically fit person running in a marathon, you might design a health-focused 5-year plan with the goal of getting in shape and starting a regular running training program.
• If you're working on a career-focused 5-year plan, you might create a fictional résumé for yourself in 5 years. This helps make the goals you set along the path to success more concrete. Just don't submit your fictional résumé for a job opening! [2] X Research source

• HARD goals are things that you can't imagine life without. If you didn't achieve these things, you would feel as though something was missing in your life. [4] X Research source

• For example, if you want to become more physically fit , your first answer might be so that you feel better about your body. But if you keep digging, you might find that what you're really concerned about is being around and being healthy for your family. Your family is your core value.

• For example, if you have a 5-year goal of running in a marathon, running a 5K wouldn't be a suitable goal for Year 1. There are many Couch-to-5K programs that can be completed in 30 days, so that goal wouldn't be challenging enough.

• For example, if your 5-year goal is to run a marathon, your short-term goals would likely involve running shorter distances, or running a shorter distance at or under a specific time.
• Choose goals that are based on your performance, not on the outcome. These are more specific and measurable. For example, rather than setting a goal of being fluent in a language, you might set a goal to learn 10 new words every day. [11] X Research source

• For example, if you have a goal related to physical fitness, you might need to buy a gym membership or hire a personal trainer.
• Some goals might require you to learn things. For example, if one of your goals is to teach English in Venezuela, you might need to learn Spanish first.

• You might hang a copy of your 5-year plan in your bathroom so you can reflect on it while you're getting ready in the morning, or near your desk so you'll see it while you're working.
• Don't be shy about your 5-year plan—share it with friends and colleagues who can cheer you on, help motivate you to achieve your goals, and hold you accountable.

• For example, what if your 5-year plan was to run a marathon, but you're running half-marathons with ease after 1 year of training? It's not going to take you 5 years to get ready for the marathon, so you might revise it to a 2- or 3-year goal.
• Sometimes you'll also want to revise your plan due to a change in circumstances beyond your control. For example, you'd likely scrap your 5-year plan to pay off your student loans if the federal government announced all student loans were being forgiven.

• The most important thing to remember about a 5-year plan is that it's never set in stone. A lot can happen in 5 years, so it could be that everything in your plan will change.
• The point of the plan is to show a way that you can achieve your goal, even if it ends up not being the way you ultimately get there.
• Any 5-year plan tends to center around your goals, but goals and plans are two very different things. Your goals are what you want to achieve while your plan is like a roadmap that tells you how you're going to get there. [16] X Research source

• Your plan's flexibility also helps motivate you because you aren't as worried about being derailed if you hit a snag. Because you have the big picture in mind, you know you can work through any challenges that come your way.

• If your plan includes a goal that other people are involved in, the plan also gives those people clarity on what they need to do to achieve the goal collectively.
• You don't have to wonder if the next steps you're taking are leading in the right direction because you've already plotted the whole thing out.
• A clear path also enables you to see how to quickly regroup and get headed toward reaching your goal again if you become sidetracked.

• The plan also allows you to see the whole path clearly so you can understand how each small step that you make is gradually getting you closer to achieving your goal.

• For example, if you have a 5-year plan to become partner of your firm, you might take on projects that set you apart from your colleagues or actively pursue promotions. This gives you more control than if you just waited for the higher-ups to notice you.

• When you're plotting out your 5-year plan, you'll naturally think about stumbling blocks that might arise. Then, you can figure out what you'll do to get around them if they do come up.
• With a 5-year plan, you'll feel like you're on top of things because you have all of the details mapped out. Taking care of the details like this allows you to see the big picture and celebrate all the small accomplishments that eventually lead to major success.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://students.carleton.ca/log/five-year-plan/
• ↑ https://capd.mit.edu/resources/creating-your-five-year-plan/
• ↑ https://public.summaries.com/files/samples/hard-goals.pdf
• ↑ Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM. Life & Career Coach. Expert Interview. 24 September 2021.
• ↑ https://www.berkeleywellbeing.com/personal-goals.html
• ↑ https://www.mindtools.com/a5ykiuq/personal-goal-setting
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-cross-examined-life/202401/learn-first-plan-later-drafting-a-useful-five-year-plan
• ↑ https://www.berkeleywellbeing.com/my-10-year-plan.html
• ↑ https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2010-04488-003
• ↑ https://www.mindtools.com/blog/whats-the-point-of-business-plannin-benefits-of-a-5-year-business-plan/

About This Article

To write a five year plan, come up with some goals that are as specific as possible, which will make them easier to track. For example, instead of saying "I want to be making more money," you could say "I want my salary to increase by 15 percent." Once you've made a list of goals, write out a plan for achieving each one. Also, break your goals up into a series of short-term goals so that you feel like you're accomplishing things along the way. For help choosing goals and working toward achieving them, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Frankie Mattei

Nov 9, 2017

Did this article help you?

Elizabeth Edwards

Apr 18, 2016

May 17, 2016

Michelle Scott

Jun 6, 2016

Jun 26, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve