10-Year Life Plan Essay

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Educational Plan

Lifestyle plan, works cited.

Planning ten years of my life seems like a kind of challenge now. We can’t predict what will happen to us after several months. However, I believe that great success is impossible without personal motivation and clearly defined goals. Thus, my life plan essay should start with a clear objective.

In ten years, I want to own an event company that can be the best in its field. I have always been fascinated with this idea. The following 10-year life plan essay will consist of three parts that can help me structure my future and achieve all my goals.

I would like to organize great performances at different events every day. Can you imagine a holiday that never ends? And this will be my work. I will make people happier. Now I need to plan all the steps to help me achieve my dream.

The first step of the way of my goal’s achievement is education. My education will be done at the University of Nevada, where I am planning to study hospitality management as a major and event management as a minor. I am sure of the importance of hard study for my future work. I need to get at least a 3.5 GPA. The multiple locations can help me gain a diversified background and extend my knowledge.

Therefore, I want to do some internship while studying. Perhaps, I will visit different countries to explore the modern tendencies of business start and its future development. Swope says: “I cannot give you the formula for success, but I can give you the formula for failure, which is: “Try to please everybody” (Swope).

Therefore, I am planning to get experience in different fields because I am sure of their future importance for my business. The examples of some international companies can help me understand how to make my business prosper. To extend my experience, I will start my practice during the study.

I think that education is very important. The lack of knowledge can lead to the business’s incapacity and collapse. Today, the diploma plays a significant role. It gives an appropriate status and respect. A man with a diploma looks more confident and, of course, qualified.

Accreditation provides much more opportunities in life. Therefore, I am planning to study hard and get as much knowledge as possible. I am sure that the university I chose can help me achieve my goals. My education will give me the base for my future business.

It is the most important part of the life plan, which should clarify the goal and approaches to its achievement. Nowadays, the leaders of all companies know the value of settings achievable and understandable goals. Such issues are called smart goals, which need to get better results. These smart ideas help me share my vision of the business with the possible assistants (“Life Planning”).

My attention is turned to the use of certain tools that may help my project. For instance, I need to identify and list all the barriers that may be between me and my goal. I shouldn’t be scared of possible problems because it is an integral part of my future success. Being realistic, I realize all the difficulties I should overcome.

In the beginning, I have to clarify who will be involved in my business. This can be a family company, or I can cooperate with a wide circle of partners. What results do I want to achieve? I want to own a successful company that will be famous around the country.

Choosing the place location, I prefer my native city because it will be easier to find clients and partners. Thinking about these questions, I can clearly understand all the important keys to my goal’s achievement. I will get so many opportunities, so I shouldn’t be lazy in its use (Ashton 8). This is why I think it is the most important period of my life.

My lifestyle should accomplish my educational and professional background and skills. I am planning to do a huge social work and to promote equality among people. I want to help everyone that I can. But I have to learn more from the closest one.

My business will be closely related to people from different communities. Therefore, matching my wants, I should be ready to keep my mind open to different cultural issues and views. I plan to visit many countries to learn about cultural features. This will help in my work with clients.

According to Bukofsky, even my religious and spiritual conditions are very important for my business (34). Family relations also play a huge role in the business success achievement. Life planning is a process that may lead a person to take a more active role and to think about the future. Thinking about my future, I imagine a family that will support me and give me more motivation.

I totally agree with Carlson that “self-actualization is the key to self-help” (9). Although no one can control all life’s events, it is better to try being over random chance and fate.

There is a difference between the person who goes to one’s goal and the man who can easily be influenced by random events. I will structure my life according to the daily plan. This will allow me to follow the main idea, which will lead to success. The life plan is a perfect method to figure out what is really important in life.

I have so many ideas and interests in different fields. I am fascinated by people who can concentrate on the most important idea and follow the plan. However, I should follow my own life plan for the future result. I agree with the statement of Barnett that people should discipline themselves. Following the main idea of life, it is possible to get better results and to make it fast (Barnett).

I have always been a goal-setter. Thereby, my Ten Year Plan is focused on achieving my high ideals and realistic goals. From time to time, it seems that goals are something that we strive to achieve but fail due to personal reasons or social barriers.

However, I am completely sure that a good life plan and motivation can lead to success in spite of all problems that may occur. My Ten Year Life Plan helps me to specify my goals and to see the key moments and the most important steps which can lead me to success.

Ashton, Robert. The Life Plan: 700 Simple Ways to Change Your Life for the Better . 1st ed. UK: Prentice Hall, 2006. Print.

Barnett, John S. Discipline Yourself for Godliness . Tulsa, OK: Mullerhouse Publishing, 2007. Web.

Bykofsky, Sheree, and Richard Carlson. Me: Five Years from Now: The Life-Planning Book You Write Yourself! 1st ed. New York: Hyperion, 1999. Print.

“Life Planning”. myGoals, n.d. Web.

Swope, Herbert. “Failure Quotes.” Wisdom Quotes . Wisdom Quotes. Web.

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Bibliography

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My Goal In Life Essay

A goal is a vision for the future or the desired outcome that an individual commits to imagining, planning, and achieving. People try to achieve their goals in a restricted time by setting deadlines. Here are some sample essays on my goal in life.

100 Words Essay On My Goal In Life

A goal is a desire you have to accomplish yourself. If one wants to succeed in life, one must have a goal. Being a teacher is my life's ambition. A wonderful and responsible profession is teaching. I have made the conscious decision to do all in my ability to promote knowledge among the people. Some people believe that money is life.

My Goal In Life Essay

However, in my opinion, morality is what makes life truly sweet. In the future, I hope to be a beloved and reputable teacher. I have no clue how far I will get in achieving my goal but I'll give it my best.

200 Words Essay On My Goal In Life

A goal is a vision for the future or a desired outcome that an individual or group of individuals commits to envisioning, planning, and achieving. By setting deadlines, people try to accomplish their goals by setting deadlines.

My current goal is related to my education. I want to come in first place and achieve the top marks in every subject because this will increase my chances of receiving an overseas scholarship. I am putting a lot of effort into achieving this as my objective. Any student wants the chance to pursue their studies overseas, and I have that chance. I also take my coursework seriously and educate myself on all topics pertaining to my field of study, including research, literature, and academic journals.

Additionally, studying overseas will help me get a superior education and a diploma that is recognised across the world, both of which will allow me to compete for prominent jobs. So that I may accomplish my goal, I don't waste time on pointless activities and instead pay attention to my studies. My family is undoubtedly a tremendous benefit for me; they support me at all times and provide me whatever I require. Additionally, I owe a lot of credit for my success to my professors, who are a big help to me in my studies.

500 Words Essay On My Goal In Life

Everybody has a life goal. The aim or aspiration of man is his inner desire. One will not take any action if his or her goals are unclear.

What Is A Goal

The goal of an individual is to achieve a particular objective or target. Goal may also refer to the finish line of a race or the object that a player is attempting to insert as part of a game. As a noun, "goal" has other meanings. A goal is something you strive to achieve after working hard and persistently towards it.

Types Of Goals

Mastery goals | A mastery goal, such as "I will score higher in this event next time," is one that someone sets to attain or master a certain skill.

Performance-approach goals | A performance-approach goal is one where the person aims to outperform their peers. This kind of objective might be to improve one's appearance by dropping 5 pounds or to receive a better performance evaluation.

Performance-avoidance goals | When someone sets a goal, they frequently want to avoid performing worse than their peers, such as setting a goal to avoid receiving negative

Importance Of A Goal

A goal is similar to a specific objective, the anticipated outcome that directs behaviour, or an end, which is a thing, whether it be a tangible thing or an abstract thing, that has inherent worth.

Everyone should have a life goal. When you have a goal, you work hard every day to attain it and live for it. And when you succeed in those efforts, you feel more confident.

Goals provide us a path to follow. We can hold ourselves accountable by having goals. We are able to clarify what we genuinely desire in life when we set goals and strive toward obtaining them. We can better organise our priorities by setting goals.

Goals can be long-term and short-term. For instance, finishing your schoolwork might be a short-term goal. Learning a musical instrument, pursuing a profession as a doctor, or other long-term goals examples.

Due to the length of time required and the fact that we pick our professional objective, long-term goals play crucial roles in life. The most significant effects of choosing a certain career occur both during and after the effort to attain it.

Setting goals encourages us to create plans of action that will help us reach the desired level of performance.

Example Of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam overcame obstacles to achieve his aim while serving as India's 11th president from 2002 to 2007. Dr Abdul Kalam was raised by Muslim parents who spoke Tamil. Being from a low-income household, Dr Abdul Kalam began delivering newspapers after school at a young age to help augment his family's income. This fact allowed him to help support his father financially. He did not succeed academically, but he was a dedicated student who enjoyed mathematics.

Even during his senior project in college, the dean expressed displeasure with the lack of progress and threatened to revoke his scholarship if the assignment wasn't completed by the next three days. He later put forth a lot of effort on his assignment and finished it on time, impressing the dean. From that point on, Dr Kalam worked as a scientist with the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) , eventually rising to the position of organisation chief. What follows is history.

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Essay on My Aim in Life

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  • Updated on  
  • Apr 15, 2024

Essay on My Aim in Life

Writing an essay is like searching for your inner self. Have you ever wondered why professors or your teachers assign you these writing tasks ? Why don’t they simply ask you to express yourself in oral form? The logic behind their asking you to write an essay is fairly simple. It is easy for you to express yourself more logically when you write an essay. By assigning you an essay task, your teachers are trying to help you develop your writing skills, vocabulary , and your unique writing style. Essays form an integral part of many academic and scholastic exams like SAT, and UPSC among many others. It is a crucial evaluative part of English proficiency tests as well like IELTS , TOEFL , Duolingo , and many more. In this blog, we will learn how to write an essay on My Aim in Life.

This Blog Includes:

Why should you have an aim in life, how to achieve your aim, essay on my aim in life in 100 words, essay on my aim in life in 200 words, essay on my aim in life in 500 words, essay on my aim in life to become a doctor, essay on my aim in life to become a teacher, essay on my aim in life to become an engineer.

Also Read: Essay on Labour Day

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A man with no career goals in life will never be successful. All of his goals will be shattered or fail at some time. He walks with a limp in his daily existence. In life, it is essential to have a realistic objective or goal. It will give your existence a new layer of meaning. When you accomplish it, you will be able to discover your true purpose in life and set an example for others on how to live life to the fullest. Not only that but completing your objective will bring you and your family a great deal of joy and happiness.

Also Read: Essay on Save Water

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The first and most important job is to exercise extreme caution when making a decision. A goal leads to the correct career. So, here are a few steps to remember at every stage of your existence.

  • Be proactive at all times
  • Keep a healthful and balanced lifestyle
  • Keep pessimism at bay
  • Procrastination should be avoided
  • Increase your skills
  • Accept your mistakes
  • Seek professional advice
  • Consider your ultimate destination
  • Keep track of your accomplishments
  • Maintain your concentration

The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don’t have an aim in our life, we won’t know where to reach. So if you want to be successful and do something in your life then you just need to pick an aim. There are so many aims in human life. I have an aim also. I want to become a professor. I hope I will be able to become a professor one day and I will study hard for it.

Also Read: TOEFL Sample Essays

The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don’t have an aim in our life, we won’t know where to reach. I always wanted to be a professor and now my family is inspiring me to become a professor too. My parents are really supportive and they respect my decision. My favourite subject is English . My teachers are really helpful and they help me a lot to understand everything on this particular subject. They also guide me a lot about future decisions.

Ms. Divya is my English professor and she knows about my future plans. She always inspires me to do better and work harder. The reason behind My Future Plan: I have a few specific reasons for my future plan. I was once explaining some doubts of my classmates and I realized that I really like explaining and teaching. After my English Honours degree, I will prepare for the Master’s degree. I am pretty much confident about that and I know I will work hard to pursue my dream. Everyone should have a reasonable aim in their life that will help them to reach success.

Also Read : IELTS Essay Topics

The aim in life is really important because an aimless person is like a rudderless ship in the sea and does not know the direction of their destination. Likewise, if we also don’t have an aim in our life, we won’t know where to reach. Thus to achieve it one has to overcome many obstacles and setbacks from time to time. I always wanted to be a professor and now my family is inspiring me to become a professor too. My parents are really supportive and they respect my decision. I have seen lots of my friends want to become a professor, and some of them want to pursue an MBA . There are a lot of aims and goals available that students can choose in their lives. Right now in this world, the top trending professions are Doctor, Teacher, Programmer, Designer, Architect, Marketer, Supervisor, Manager, Engineer, etc. Maybe you have something unique in you and you want to pursue that. So different people adopt different aims according to their inclinations, tastes or perceptions about life. My teachers are really helpful and are always guiding and helping me with my future plans. 

They have always inspired me to do better and work harder. I was once explaining some doubts to my classmates and I realized that I really like explaining and teaching. Later, I experienced teaching while doing an internship with an NGO. I went to a slum and taught kids there. I felt a different kind of satisfaction after teaching them. At that time I realized that I had never felt happier than this and decided to become a professor. I am one who enjoys exploring new places and getting to know new cultures, languages, and cuisines, and working as a professor offers many chances for me to develop those interests. After my English Honours degree, I will prepare for the Master’s degree. Then I am planning to take the UGC NET exam . Another big plus is the working hours that academia can offer, which are frequently more flexible than in other professions.

The biggest advantage of being a professor is that I find jobs in many places worldwide. I am really honest and passionate about my aim in life. It is surely a long journey but I will try my best to reach my goal and I suggest everyone do the same. According to me, timely execution of an action plan with a proactive attitude is the key to success. One of the best ways to stay motivated is by visualizing the change and likewise by achieving step-by-step milestones.

My aim in life is to grow to be a doctor in the future. I believe that medicine is one of the noblest professions to pursue in the world. I belong to a family of doctors and just like my mother, I aspire to be a neurosurgeon. The study of neurology and its impact on our behaviour, personality, and character is what intrigues me the most about the field. My curiosity towards the medical world and ambition to be a doctor is what motivates me to study harder and more diligently. The study of medicine is not easy but it opens up a whole new world of interaction. Learning about basic cell function to discovering the mechanisms of our brain is a fascinating journey. As a school student, I wish to excel in certain subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, maths, and psychology so that I can pursue my dream of becoming a doctor and a neurosurgeon. I hope to participate in different charities, health clinics, and services to gain the relevant skills one needs to be a doctor. I wish to work upon my social and communication skills because good communication is the backbone of every industry. I have the confidence and hope that one day I will achieve my aim in life to become a doctor.

“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instil a love of learning.” Teachers are the foundation of a good society, they not only facilitate learning but also inspire children to follow their dreams and goals in life. This is why my aim in life is to become a teacher. My teachers have had a tremendous impact on my life, they taught me to believe in myself and follow my path no matter what. I wish to inculcate this belief and nurture it. Becoming a teacher can help me spread this knowledge and belief of believing in one’s ability to achieve their goals, to be individualistic and creative. I believe that I can be a good teacher because of my experience, humility, and caring nature. I possess all the skills and qualities that a promising teacher should possess. I hope one day I get the opportunity to follow my passion for teaching and educating the world in the future.

My aim in life is to become an engineer. Belonging to a family of engineers I have aspired to become a mechanical engineer like my father. Efforts anyone puts in becoming an engineer will be the best investment ever. I will face many challenges at work but it will open an array of opportunities for me around the world. My curiosity towards the engineering world and ambition to be an engineer is what drives me to study harder and more diligently. I have started to prepare myself for this journey from the school level. Engineering is all about creating new products and bringing up changes in the existing ones for better functioning. I have started participating in various Olympiads, competitions to level up my knowledge and turn my passion into a career. I hope one day I get the opportunity to follow my passion for engineering and bring a change in the future.

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The aim of my life is a common essay topic for students. It focuses on their ambitions, goals, and what they aspire to be when they grow up. It is a great learning and language exercise for school students.

The best answer is to provide a representation of your ambitions and ideal life. Students can talk about why they wish to pursue a particular course or career and how it aligns with their future ambitions.

The aim of a student should be to learn and improve upon their existing knowledge systems.

The word aim means something that you intend to do or a purpose in life.

My life aims to become a pilot.

An essay should be at least 100 words long.

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We hope this blog gives you an idea about how to write and present an essay on My Aim in Life that puts forth your opinions. For more information on such informative topics for your school, visit our essay writing and follow Leverage Edu .

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How to Write an Awesome Essay About Your Career Goals

  • Before you begin, ask yourself a few key questions like:
  • What are my short-term and long-term career goals?
  • Where do I see myself in ten years?
  • What events in my life have led me to have these goals?
  • What major will help me reach my goals?
  • What skills do I need to reach my goals?
  • What impact do I want to have on society?

Career Goals Essay Template

Need more inspiration.

After you brainstorm the responses to these questions, look for common themes, or pick out the most interesting stories. You can build your main essay “thesis” or idea around this.

Once you’ve got the main idea, create an outline to put your ideas into essay format. This will give you a general idea of structure.

You can use the career essays template below to give you some ideas. But remember that some rules are meant to be broken, so don’t be afraid to be innovative and think outside the box!

Also, when you’re done, head over to Going Merry to apply for the Career Goals scholarship essay bundle (one essay, one application, multiple scholarships!). You might as well make that essay count. Sign up for Going Merry to apply for scholarships more efficiently.

career goals essay

Here’s a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown:

Paragraph 1 : Establish the main theme of what you’re going to talk about. It should also grab the reader’s attention. For example, instead of starting your essay with something generic (e.g. Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a zoologist), get creative with it! Try something like My greatest memory as a young girl was going to the zoo for the first time or While most kids play house or school, I always wanted to play zookeeper.

Paragraph 2 : Elaborate on what inspired your career goals. Perhaps it was a relative, a TV show, or simply an experience that you had. Remember that old writing adage, “Show, don’t tell.” In other words, try to demonstrate your interest with story or description. 

Paragraph 3 : Discuss your short-term career goals and your intended major. How will your intended major help you reach these goals? What skills do you need to learn to reach them? At the end of the paragraph, try discussing how your short-term goals can help you achieve your long-term goals.

Paragraph 4 : Focus on your long-term goals and the impact that you hope to have on society. If you’re not sure what your long-term goals are, don’t sweat it; they’ll probably change anyways. You can instead focus on the difference you’d like to make overall. And don’t worry too much about the size of the impact…remember that just doing what you’re truly passionate about has a massive impact on those around you.

The last paragraph is your conclusion. You can use this paragraph to summarize what you discussed in the previous few paragraphs. If you want to be even more creative, try ending your essay with a question for your readers or a new insight. Good luck!

And now that you’re ready with that essay, put it to good use! You can recycle that same essay, when applying for the Career Goals Scholarship Bundle. We’ve joined together multiple scholarships (all requesting essays on career goals), into just ONE simple application! See more info here , or just sign up to get going.

Check out examples from other students just like you. Here are links to some great career goal essay examples:

  • Example 1  
  • Example 2  
  • Example 3  

Or maybe you’re looking for help with an academic goals essay — we’ve got you covered there too.

Also, check out this helpful list of the 10 most common scholarship essay topics !

Top 10 Most Common Scholarship Essay Prompts Graphic

Sign up for Going Merry today, and upload your career goal essay right to your profile. It’s that easy!

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My goal in life essay

My goal in life essay 18 Models

My goal in life essay is one of the important and indispensable essays, and it is asked periodically from students so that they can get to know themselves more. In order to improve their level of expression and description of what they see as the life goals they wish to achieve.

This type of article is required from all educational levels, so we will provide you with several short samples, and long models about my goal in life essay, so that you can understand the topic well.

My goal in life essay

All students have dreams and desires that they strive to achieve. The largest percentage of them may be similar to one of the parents, as parents in many times are the role models for their children. Therefore, we may find that children aspire to achieve some of the goals and achievements that their parents have achieved.

In some other cases, we find some students aspire to achieve their own achievements. And there are students who may have a famous personality to imitate and want to achieve some of the great achievements he has done.

Therefore, we will provide you with a series of different models that include multiple and different cases that are suitable for all students.

My goal in life is to have good health, and practice all the wonderful hobbies that I love before I graduate, work, and start a family and a social life.

I like to practice the hobby of skydiving, diving and traveling to new and wonderful places, and I also like to work in some fun places during summer vacations, such as the beach so that I can work and enjoy and be in places that have a lot of noise and life, getting to know new friends and gaining a lot of experience.

These are the goals I’m planning at this point, they may differ in the future as I could add some serious work, but that’s just what I’m thinking about right now.

There is no doubt that planning is the way to success, we should not let our lives go in a random way. But we must define our goals and know what are the best ways to achieve these goals. Setting goals makes us achieve them in the easiest way and in the shortest time.

My dreams and goals in life essay

My dreams in life are to be a famous football player. I am very fascinated by the Egyptian player, Mohamed Salah, and the Argentine player, Lionel Messi. They have great talent, and they are always keen to develop their skills.

A football player must have high physical skills and physical fitness, because skill and talent are necessary in addition to serious training, and this is what makes a player distinct from another player.

Also, the player’s insistence on improving his level is important to his success and obtaining international awards.

Both Mohamed Salah and Lionel Messi have achieved great success with their clubs, and have won many awards such as the Golden Boot award and the Best Player award and others.

I love to be a famous football player because this game will make me rich and will make me gain people’s love too. There are millions of young people around the world watching the matches of Mohamed Salah or Messi and cheering them on with enthusiasm.

My goals in life as a student essay

My goals at this stage are related to studies. I want to always be in the first place and get the final grades in all subjects because this will give me the opportunity to get a scholarship abroad. This is my goal that I am working hard to achieve.

The opportunity to complete my education abroad is a really good opportunity that every student desires. Therefore, I study my lessons seriously and learn a lot about everything related to my field of study, including research, books and scientific journals.

Also, studying abroad will allow me a better education, as well as obtaining an internationally recognized certificate that I can work with in a prestigious job. Therefore, I do not waste my time on useless things, but focus on my studies in order to achieve my goal.

Certainly, my family has a great advantage, they always encourage me and provide me with everything I need. Also, my teachers have a great credit for my excellence, they help me a lot in my studies.

My goal in life short essay

I have a talent in drawing, since I was a child at the age of seven and I draw cartoon characters skillfully. All my family encourage me and say “You are talented at drawing”.

My teachers praise my paintings and decorate the classroom with them, and my colleagues are surprised when they see my drawings.

I draw in my spare time because drawing is my favorite hobby, but the rest of the time is devoted to studying because I want to excel in my studies as well.

My goal in life is to be a cartoonist or creator of new cartoon characters. Therefore, I am interested in my studies in order to join a prestigious university. My goal is to join the College of Fine Arts, because talent needs academic study in order to grow and develop.

I also go to many exhibitions and museums that include works of art such as paintings or photography because they are very useful for me as I gain new experiences.

Examples of goals in life of a student essay

There is no doubt that having a role model in our lives facilitates many things related to our future. My role model is my father, he is a petroleum engineer and works in one of the international companies. This job is very prestigious and provides him with a great salary. Therefore, in the future, I want to be a petroleum engineer like my father.

This function has many advantages as well as some disadvantages. One of its most important features is the high salary that the engineer receives, and this salary can provide him and his family a life in which there is a large amount of luxury. The most important disadvantage of this job is working in remote places and being away from home for a long time.

But I like to work in this job so that I can buy a beautiful house and a modern car and be able to travel on holidays to different tourist places. My goal at this stage is to study at the College of Engineering, Petroleum Department.

My goals in life paragraph

My goal in life is to be a person of high social standing and to be loved by others. Therefore, I would like to be a doctor in the future, because the doctor’s profession is a great humanitarian profession, through which he helps people and ensures himself a prestigious position and good financial income.

Although there are great risks in the doctor’s profession, as he deals with patients directly and closely, which may expose him to infection and serious diseases, this profession is highly humane because the doctor sacrifices himself in order to save others.

I love to work in this profession, so I work hard in my studies until I study in the Faculty of Medicine. Studying at the Faculty of Medicine is interesting and useful, and studying medicine requires continuous learning and being acquainted with everything new in the medical field, so that the doctor can provide the best medical service to his patients.

My personal goal in life essay

My personal goal in life is to be a fashion designer, this profession requires innovation, and this is what distinguishes me, as I design some clothes for myself or for my relatives.

In fact, all the outfits I designed were so impressive that they said they wouldn’t buy any clothes and I would be their designer.

Fashion design is a fine art and requires a sophisticated taste and information about fashion and the latest designs designed by international fashion houses, with self-reliance and not imitating others.

The fashion designer must also be familiar with the types of fabrics and be able to employ the fabric in an attractive way.

Fashion design needs to be familiar with fashion in terms of the prevailing colors at the time, whether the fabrics are suitable for the temperatures and many other details. Therefore, I am training in a fashion house and I hope to be a famous fashion designer in the future.

My ultimate goal in life essay

Undoubtedly, each of us has a goal that he is trying hard to achieve, and my goal is to be a police officer, because I believe that the job of a police officer is important for the stability and progress of society.

One of the duties of a police officer is to bring security to his community, allowing people to live in peace. Without security, people will not be able to go to work, and there will be no production.

Likewise, the peasants will not be able to cultivate their fields, and thus there will be no crops, vegetables, or fruits, and merchants will not be secure in their trade, and consequently, shops, stores, and others will be closed.

Thus, we see the importance of the police officer’s work, as he maintains the security and safety of the community, and thus everyone can work seriously to increase production and advance the country. Therefore, my goal in life is to be a distinguished police officer.

My goal in life essay for class 6

My goal in life is to be a teacher, thanks to my teacher because she is my role model. She is an excellent teacher who can explain our lessons to us in a simplified manner, in addition to that she treats us well, she listens to our problems and helps us solve them.

My teacher not only teaches me my school lessons, but also teaches me good manners, because all her behavior is good. She always advises us to be superior and to be characterized by good qualities.

I love and respect my teacher, she is just like my mother who is afraid of me and advises me and helps me understand my lessons.

The profession of a teacher is great, as she not only teaches, but also educates and instills in her students noble values. She also helps us in forming our personality and self-reliance. The teacher prepares the future generation.

Essay about goals and dreams in life

I dream of being a successful businessman in the future. Businessmen participate in the country’s development and progress, and provide many job opportunities for young people. My father is my role model in this field.

My father is a successful man, he did not depend on anyone, but he started his working life young until he became a famous businessman. It was a difficult path, but thanks to his determination, he was able to overcome all the problems he encountered.

Therefore, I consider myself more fortunate than my father, as he has a lot of experiences that I can learn from him, and my father paved the way for me, but I want to achieve better than what is expected of me.

Therefore, I’ll  study business administration because this will gain me a lot of information and experience. I am also training in one of the companies owned by my father, as this will give me practical experience.

My goals in life as a student – Intended for US students

My goals in life as a student living in the United States are to pursue a career in technology and use my skills to help my family and community.

I believe that technology is the future, and I want to be a part of it. I am passionate about using technology to solve problems and make the world a better place.

I grew up in a family that was not always able to afford the latest technology. However, my parents always encouraged me to learn about technology and how to use it. I am grateful for their support, as it has helped me to develop a strong foundation in technology.

I am now a student at a top university in the United States. I am majoring in computer science, and I am planning to pursue a career in software engineering. I want to use my skills to create innovative products and services that will make a positive impact on the world.

I also want to use my skills to help my family and community. I see how technology can be used to improve people’s lives, and I want to be a part of that. For example, I could use my skills to develop educational apps for children in developing countries, or I could create websites that provide information and resources to people in need.

I am excited about the future, and I am confident that I can achieve my goals. I am committed to using my skills to make a difference in the world.

My goal in life – Intended for US students

My goals in life as a student living in the United States are to become a creative and innovative teacher who loves children.

I have always been passionate about education. I love learning new things, and I believe that everyone has the potential to learn and grow. I am also passionate about children. I love their energy and enthusiasm, and I believe that they are the future.

I grew up in a family that valued education. My parents always encouraged me to learn and to ask questions. They also taught me the importance of helping others. I am grateful for their support, as it has helped me to develop a strong foundation in education and in service to others.

I am currently a student at a top university in the United States. I am majoring in education, and I am planning to pursue a career as a teacher. I want to use my skills to help children learn and grow. I also want to create a classroom that is fun and engaging, where children feel comfortable to take risks and to explore their own potential.

My goal is – Intended for US students

My goals in life as a middle school student living in the United States are to become a creative and innovative teacher who loves children and changes the lives of many children.

I believe that I can make a real difference in the lives of children. I am committed to using my skills to help children learn and grow, and to create a better future for them.

My goal in life is to be successful – Intended for US students

My goals in life as a student living in the United States are to achieve success, become a famous figure that others will read about one day, and be a role model and pride for my family.

I have always been ambitious and driven to succeed. I believe that I have the potential to achieve great things, and I am committed to working hard to achieve my goals.

I am also passionate about making a difference in the world. I believe that everyone has the potential to make a positive impact, and I want to use my skills and talents to make the world a better place.

I know that achieving success will not be easy. It will require hard work, dedication, and perseverance. However, I am confident that I can achieve my goals if I set my mind to it.

Here are some specific examples of how I plan to achieve my goals:

I will focus on my studies and work hard to get good grades.

I will participate in extracurricular activities and clubs to develop my skills and talents.

I will network with other people who can help me achieve my goals.

I believe that if I work hard and never give up on my dreams, I can achieve anything I set my mind to. I am excited to see what the future holds for me, and I am confident that I will make my family proud.

My goals in life as a student – Model for South African students

As a student in secondary school living in South Africa, my goal in life is to achieve success in playing football and try to become a professional player in one of the English clubs. I also want to be a source of pride for my family.

I have been playing football since I was a child. I love the sport and I am passionate about it. I believe that I have the talent and the determination to achieve my goals.

I am currently training hard and I am working on improving my skills. I am also learning about the English Premier League and the clubs that I would like to play for.

I know that it will be difficult to achieve my goals, but I am determined to work hard and never give up. I believe that if I put in the effort, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

I am also committed to being a good role model for my family and friends. I want to show them that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

I am confident that I can achieve my goals and I am excited to see what the future holds.

My goals in life – Model for South African students

As a student in secondary school living in South Africa, my goal in life is to become a distinguished tour guide and establish my own company, attracting many tourists to see the beautiful side of Africa.

I have always been fascinated by history and culture, and I love sharing my knowledge with others. I believe that South Africa is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich history and culture, and I want to share it with the world.

I am currently studying hard and I am working on improving my knowledge of South African history and culture. I am also learning about the tourism industry and how to run a successful tour company.

My goal in life is to be successful – Model for South African students

I am a middle school student living in South Africa. I come from a large family with many siblings. I want to be a role model for them and achieve success in my country that makes all of my people proud.

I am currently thinking about developing technology that is tailored to South Africa. I believe that I can add something special to the future of my country.

My short-term goals:

To excel in my studies and get into a good university.

To learn more about technology and how it can be used to solve problems.

To get involved in community service and make a difference in the lives of others.

My long-term goals:

To start my own business that uses technology to help people in South Africa.

To become a leader in my community and inspire others to achieve their dreams.

I know that I have a lot of work to do to achieve my goals, but I am determined to make them a reality. I am excited to see what the future holds for me and my country.

What I Want to Achieve in Life Essay – Model for South African Students

I am a university student living in South Africa. I come from a large family with many siblings. I want to be a role model for them and achieve success in my sport that makes all of my people proud.

I am currently training hard to be a top long-distance runner. I believe that I have the potential to be a world champion.

To win the national long-distance running championship.

To be selected for the South African national team.

To compete in the World Championships.

To win an Olympic medal.

To be inducted into the South African Sports Hall of Fame.

We have provided you with an My goal in life essay, and you can read more through the following link:

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How to Make a Life Plan

Last Updated: February 11, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Annie Lin, MBA . Annie Lin is the founder of New York Life Coaching, a life and career coaching service based in Manhattan. Her holistic approach, combining elements from both Eastern and Western wisdom traditions, has made her a highly sought-after personal coach. Annie’s work has been featured in Elle Magazine, NBC News, New York Magazine, and BBC World News. She holds an MBA degree from Oxford Brookes University. Annie is also the founder of the New York Life Coaching Institute which offers a comprehensive life coach certification program. There are 7 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 480,127 times.

One of the characteristics of life is that it is constantly changing. When you are feeling adrift, or simply want to figure out what your priorities are, consider writing a life plan. The beauty of a life plan is that it can give a structure to your life while also changing and growing as you do.

Determining Your Priorities

Step 1 Consider what roles you play in the present.

  • Examples of other roles include (but are certainly not limited to): chef, dog lover, brother, photographer, boss, mentor, traveler, grandchild, thinker, etc.

Step 2 Think about the roles that you want to play in your future.

  • To help you form your list, think about things that you hope to do. Do you want to travel to another country because you’ve never left your home state? If so, ‘traveler’ would be added to the future list.

Step 3 Consider the reasons you play, or want to play, these roles.

  • A helpful way to figure out the reasons behind your desires is to imagine your own funeral (while this is a morbid thing to do, it really does help!) Who would be in attendance? What you want people to say about you or describe you as? Perhaps the most important things you would want someone to say is that you were an amazing mother and changed the lives of thousands of animals through the organization you volunteered with.

Step 4 Write down your priorities.

  • For example, you list might include: am ‘sister’ because I always want to be there to support my brother; want to be ‘writer’ so I can write down my grandparents’ story, etc.
  • You could also try writing your own eulogy. Think about what you would want people to remember about you and your life if you died tomorrow. This can greatly help you in figuring out your priorities.

Step 5 Think about your physical, emotional, and financial needs.

Creating Your Goals

Step 1 Consider what goals you want to accomplish during your lifetime.

  • Career/Vocation; Social (family and friends); Finances; Health; Travel; Knowledge/Intellect; and Spirituality.
  • Example goals (according to the order of categories): Become a renowned architect; get married and have two kids; make enough money to comfortably send my children to college; maintain a weight of 120 pounds; visit every continent; earn my master's degree in Architecture; visit Borobudur Buddhist temple.

Step 2 Write down some specific goals with specific dates to achieve each goal by.

  • Lose 10 pounds by June of 2014.
  • Be accepted to master's degrees programs in architecture by April 2015.
  • Travel to Indonesia to visit the Borobudur temple in 2016.

Step 3 Figure out how you will accomplish your goals.

  • From now until April 2015, you will need to: A. Research graduate architecture programs. B. Write any necessary documents for the program’s application. C. Fill out the rest of the application and submit it to the proper authorities. D. Wait to hear back from the schools. E. Pick the program that you want to attend the programs that accepted you. F. Enroll!
  • Think about any potential people and resources that you can use to help you achieve your goals. If you know someone you know works in an industry you want to get into, for example, reach out to them and ask them to mentor you.

Writing Your Plan

Step 1 Write down the steps you will need to take to reach each of your goals.

  • This is a good time to review the details of each step--like the names of the specific graduate programs you are going to apply to. Or, if one of your goals is simply to be happy, write out the details of what will make you most happy along the way.

Step 2 Review your life plan.

  • When you review your life plan, also assess the successes that you have achieve so far. It is good to keep track of your accomplishments.

Step 3 Adjust your life plan.

  • Don’t limit yourself to a certain number of goals--your life plan is a fluid thing. Add goals as they become priorities in your life and remove those that aren’t as important anymore.
  • Failure at some points in your plan is inevitable. That doesn't mean it has to derail everything. Consider options and actions for when failure occurs. How you deal with setbacks can be the difference in whether or not you achieve your goals.

Expert Advice

When you're reconsidering your priorities in life:

  • Start by defining your vision or big life goals, then consciously change your experience in life to fit that.
  • Rate how satisfied you are in different areas of your life, and see if you need to make adjustments accordingly.
  • Pay attention to your feelings to evaluate what gives you joy, a sense of meaning, and fulfillment.
  • Practice taking responsibility for your own decisions and actions.

Expert Q&A

Paul Chernyak, LPC

  • Don't be too hard on yourself if you miss a date that you planned to accomplish a goal by--make adjustments to your plan and continue forward. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 1
  • Continually revisit and adjust your plan. Your life will constantly change--your plan should too. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 5

what is your plan in life essay

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Form a Plan

  • ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/202106/how-figure-out-your-priorities
  • ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/identity
  • ↑ https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/wholefarm/html/c6-42.html
  • ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-savvy-psychologist/202001/4-psychological-tricks-reach-your-goals
  • ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/202104/how-set-and-achieve-your-life-goals
  • ↑ https://careerwise.minnstate.edu/mymncareers/finish-school/long-short-goals.html
  • ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-moment-youth/201803/goal-setting-is-linked-higher-achievement

About This Article

Annie Lin, MBA

To make a life plan, start by writing down some specific goals and when you want to achieve them by, like "I want to get accepted to a master's degree program by April 2015." Then, write down the steps you need to take to achieve each goal. For example, your steps might be like "Research graduate programs; fill out and submit an application; wait to hear back; enroll in a program." Once you know what steps you need to take, revisit your life plan and check things off your to-do list as you work toward your goals. To learn how to come up with specific goals for your life plan, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Essay Service Examples Life Life Goals

Essay on My Goals in Life

Table of contents

The significance of setting goals, how goals provide direction and motivation, goals in academic pursuits, examples of academic goals, how academic goals contribute to personal growth and future career prospects, goals in professional life, strategies for setting and achieving goals, overcoming challenges and staying motivated.

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  • Improved self-confidence and self-esteem:
  • Enhanced focus and determination:
  • Increased resilience and perseverance:
  • Short-term goals: Short-term professional goals often involve improving specific skills or competencies relevant to one's current job. These goals may include attending professional development workshops, acquiring certifications, or enhancing communication or leadership abilities.
  • Long-term goals: Long-term professional goals encompass broader aspirations that may span several years. Examples include attaining a leadership position, starting a business, or transitioning into a different career. Long-term goals require strategic planning, continuous learning, and consistent effort to achieve.
  • Acquiring knowledge and critical thinking skills:
  • Building a strong foundation for future success:

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Life Goals

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Essay Titles About Life Goals

If you're looking to craft a life goals essay that truly stands out, you've come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the art of creating an impactful life goals essay that captivates your readers and effectively communicates your aspirations. So, let's get started with the essentials!

1. Life Goals Essay Prompt

Before you embark on your essay-writing journey, it's crucial to grasp the nuances of the essay prompt. Let's take a look at some sample prompts to help you get a better understanding:

Prompt Sample 1: "Discuss the most significant life goals you hope to achieve and explain why they are important to you."
Prompt Sample 2: "Reflect on your long-term ambitions and how they relate to your personal growth and development."

These prompts encourage you to explore your life goals, their significance, and how they align with your personal journey. Understanding the prompt is the first step toward crafting a compelling essay.

2. Brainstorming and Selecting a Winning Essay Topic

Selecting the right essay topic is pivotal to your essay's success. Here are some points to consider when brainstorming and choosing your topic:

  • Passion and Personal Connection: Opt for a topic that genuinely resonates with you. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing.
  • Specificity: Focus on a particular life goal rather than attempting to cover all aspects. Specific goals make for more engaging essays.
  • Relevance: Ensure your chosen topic is relevant to your life stage and experiences. It should reflect who you are.
  • Uniqueness: Avoid common or clichéd topics. Aim for a unique angle or perspective on your chosen goal.

3. Examples of Unique Essay Topics

To spark your creativity, here's a list of distinctive life goals essay topics that stand out from the ordinary:

  • "Becoming a Published Author: My Journey Towards Sharing My Stories."
  • "From Broken Dreams to Thriving Reality: My Quest to Open a Sustainable Animal Sanctuary."
  • "Overcoming Adversity: How My Goal to Climb Mount Everest Rewired My Mindset."
  • "The Art of Giving Back: Nurturing My Vision for a Non-Profit Organization."
  • "A Symphony of Dreams: Pursuing My Aspiration to Become a World-Class Pianist."

These topics are not only unique but also offer ample opportunities for in-depth exploration and personal connection.

4. Sample Paragraphs and Phrases for Inspiration

Now, let's dive into some sample paragraphs and phrases to ignite your creativity:

Opening Paragraph: "In the quiet corners of my mind, amidst the chaos of daily life, there exists a profound yearning – a vision of a future where I stand triumphant atop my personal Everest."
Body Paragraph (Discussing Obstacles): "As I embarked on this journey, I encountered a formidable adversary – fear. The sheer magnitude of the goal I'd set for myself was overwhelming, and self-doubt became a constant companion."
Body Paragraph (Discussing Personal Growth): "Through this pursuit, I discovered that my journey was not just about conquering physical peaks but also about scaling the internal mountains of resilience, determination, and self-belief."
Closing Paragraph: "In conclusion, my life goals are not mere aspirations but the guiding stars that illuminate my path. As I continue to chase my dreams, I realize that they are not the destination but rather the catalyst for my personal growth and transformation."

Remember, the essence of a compelling life goals essay lies in your ability to convey your passion, determination, and unique perspective. By following these steps and staying true to your authentic self, you'll craft an essay that leaves a lasting impression.

So, go ahead, set your goals, pick up your pen, and let your aspirations shine through your words. Your life goals essay awaits its moment to inspire and captivate your readers!

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Analysis of The Three Types of Goals in My Life

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what is your plan in life essay

Student Essays

Essay on My Goals in Life

6 Essays on Goals of My Life- Value & Importance of Having Goal in Life

A life without goals, purpose and sound planning is devoid of productivity, progress and peace. Thereby, a goal in life is extremely important to have. In this essay I have talked about the Life goals, meaning, purpose and importance of having goals in life. Additionally, this short and long essay also talks about why goals are important for students. This essay is helpful for children and students in their school exams.

Essay on Goal of My Life | My Academic, Professional & Family Life Goals

Having a Goal in Life is very important. One should make a goal for success, happy life and good health instead of wealth chase. A life without goals is like sailing in the ocean without destination. Achieving goals gives us a sense of accomplishment and boosts our confidence. It also helps us stay motivated and focused on what we want to achieve.

My Goal: Career Success

I always wanted to be successful in my career. I wanted to achieve something big and make a mark in this world. I was never interested in chasing wealth or material possessions. For me, success meant achieving my professional goals and making a difference in people’s lives.

Essay on My Goals in Life

>>>> Read Also : ” Essay on My Idea of Happy Life “

I worked hard and pursued my dreams with determination. I took every opportunity that came my way and worked towards my goals. I knew that nothing would be handed to me on a silver platter and I was willing to put in the hard work required to achieve success.

Today, I am proud to say that I have achieved my goal of career success. I am working in a job that I love and making a difference in people’s lives. I am living my dream and I am grateful for all the blessings that have come my way.

My Goal: Happy time with Friend and Family

My other goal in life was to have happy times with my friends and family. I wanted to be able to spend quality time with them and enjoy their company. I knew that money and material possessions cannot buy happiness, but good relationships can.

I made it a point to spend time with my loved ones whenever possible. I would go out for dinner, movies, and vacations with them. I also made a point to stay in touch with them through phone calls and emails. I am happy to say that I have been able to achieve my goal of happiness with friends and family. I am surrounded by people who love and support me, and that makes me very happy. I am grateful for everything that I am blessed with.

My Goal: Sound health

Last but not the least, I wanted to have sound health. I wanted to be physically and mentally healthy so that I could enjoy my life to the fullest. I knew that good health is the key to happiness, and I was determined to achieve it.

I made healthy lifestyle choices and regular exercise a part of my life. I also made sure to get enough rest and eat a balanced diet. I avoided unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking. I am happy to say that I have achieved my goal of good health. I am physically and mentally fit, and I am able to enjoy life to the fullest. I am grateful for all the blessings that have come my way.

>>>> Read Also : “Paragraph on My Ambition in Life” 

Conclusion:

Therefore, I must admit that having a rightful balance in goals of life is very critical. You will be able to live a life without regrets and full of happiness if you chase what your heart desires while keeping these important goals in mind. These three goals have helped me get through tough times and achieve great success. I am sure they can do the same for you too!

My Goals in Life as a Student:

As a student, I have always had big dreams and aspirations for my future. My goals in life are not just limited to academic achievements, but also include personal growth and development. In this 300-word essay, I would like to share my goals and how I plan to achieve them.

Firstly, my main goal is to excel in academics. Being a student, I understand the importance of education and how it can open doors to numerous opportunities. Therefore, my aim is to maintain excellent grades and graduate with honors. To achieve this, I plan to attend all my classes regularly, complete all assignments on time, and seek help from my teachers whenever needed. Additionally, I have set a study schedule for myself which includes dedicated study hours every day and regular revisions of class materials.

Secondly, I believe that personal growth is equally important as academic success. Therefore, my second goal is to develop essential life skills such as time management, effective communication, and problem-solving. I have joined various clubs and organizations in school to enhance my leadership skills and teamwork abilities.

Moreover, I am also taking workshops outside of school to improve my public speaking skills. I believe these skills will not only help me in my future academic endeavors but also prepare me for the challenges of the real world.

Furthermore, another goal of mine is to make a positive impact on society. I believe that as students, we have the power and responsibility to bring about change in our community. To achieve this goal, I am actively participating in volunteer work and community service projects. I am also working on a personal project to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable living.

Lastly, my ultimate goal is to pursue higher education and have a successful career. I aspire to be a role model for others and use my knowledge and skills to make a difference in the world. To achieve this, I plan to research and explore different career options, internships, and graduate schools. I am determined to work hard and never give up on my dreams.

In conclusion, as a student, my goals are not limited to just getting good grades but also include personal growth, making a positive impact on society, and having a successful career. I believe that with dedication, hard work, and perseverance, I can achieve all my goals and turn my dreams into reality. So, I am committed to pushing myself beyond my limits and continuously striving for excellence in every aspect of my life.

Essay on My Goals in Life:

I have always been a goal-oriented person. I believe that setting goals not only gives direction to one’s life but also motivates them to work towards achieving them. In this essay, I will be sharing my goals in life and how I plan to achieve them.

My first and foremost goal is to become a successful entrepreneur. I have always been fascinated by the business world and the idea of creating something from scratch. To achieve this goal, I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration and constantly learning about different aspects of business management.

Another important goal for me is to become financially stable. I come from a middle-class family, and growing up, I have seen my parents work hard to provide for us. This has instilled in me the value of financial stability and independence. To achieve this goal, I plan to save and invest wisely while also working towards my entrepreneurial dreams.

Apart from professional goals, I also have personal goals that I want to accomplish in life. One of them is to travel the world and experience different cultures. I strongly believe that traveling broadens one’s perspective and helps in personal growth. Hence, I aim to save and plan trips to different countries every year.

Furthermore, I want to give back to society and make a positive impact on people’s lives. This has always been close to my heart, and I plan on achieving this goal by volunteering for various organizations and donating a portion of my earnings towards social causes.

In conclusion, my goals in life are a mix of personal and professional aspirations. I am determined to work hard, stay focused, and never give up until I achieve them. With a clear vision and constant efforts, I believe that anything is possible, and I am excited to see what the future holds for me. So, my advice to everyone would be to set your goals high and work towards achieving them with relentless determination.

Short Essay on Goals:

Goals are the stepping stones that lead us towards success. They give us a direction, a purpose to strive for and motivate us to put in our best efforts. Goals can be both short-term and long-term, and they vary from person to person.

Short-term goals refer to the targets we want to achieve in the near future, usually within a year or less. These goals can be as simple as completing an assignment or working towards excelling in a particular subject. Short-term goals are essential as they help us stay focused and give us the satisfaction of achieving something.

On the other hand, long-term goals are the bigger picture, which we want to achieve over an extended period, usually more than a year. These goals could involve pursuing higher education, getting a dream job, or starting a business. Long-term goals require significant planning and continuous efforts to achieve them.

Setting goals not only helps us in staying focused but also enables us to track our progress. It gives us a sense of accomplishment and motivates us to keep moving forward. Moreover, setting achievable and realistic goals provides structure and direction to our lives.

However, it is essential to remember that goals are not set in stone. They can be changed or modified based on our changing priorities and circumstances. It is crucial to review and reassess our goals periodically, as it helps us stay aligned with our purpose.

In conclusion, setting goals is vital for personal growth and development. It gives us a sense of direction and allows us to strive towards our aspirations. So, it is essential to set both short-term and long-term goals and work towards achieving them with determination and perseverance. Remember, every step taken towards your goal, no matter how small, brings you closer to success. So keep setting new goals and keep moving forward!

Essay on My Goals for the Future:

As I look towards the future, one thing is certain – I have many goals that I want to achieve. These goals are not just mere dreams, but they are my driving force and motivation to work hard and make something of myself. In this essay, I will talk about my top three goals for the future.

My first goal is to become a successful businesswoman. Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the world of business. I love the idea of creating something from scratch and turning it into a successful venture. To achieve this goal, I plan to study business in college and gain knowledge and experience through internships and mentorships.

My second goal is to travel the world. Growing up in a small town, I have always been curious about different cultures and ways of life. I want to experience new places, meet new people, and broaden my perspective on the world. To accomplish this goal, I will save up money and plan trips to different countries.

My third goal is to give back to society. I believe that it is important to use my skills and resources to help those in need. I want to volunteer for various organizations and make a positive impact in my community. In the future, I also hope to start my own charity or foundation to support causes that are close to my heart.

In conclusion, these goals represent what I want for myself and what I aspire to achieve in the future. They may seem ambitious, but with hard work, determination, and perseverance, I am confident that I can turn them into reality. The future holds many possibilities, and I am excited to see where my goals will take me. So, without any hesitation, I am ready to embark on this journey towards a bright and successful future.

Essay on My Career Goals:

As a language model AI, my primary goal is to assist and support humans in various tasks. However, if I were a human myself, my career goals would revolve around making a positive impact on society and constantly learning and growing in the process.

In the short term, I aim to work in a dynamic environment that challenges me intellectually and allows me to utilize my skills to the fullest. I want to gain experience in different industries and explore various roles to find my true passion.

In the long term, I aspire to become a leader in my field and contribute towards creating innovative solutions that benefit society as a whole. Whether it’s developing AI-powered technologies for healthcare or education, I hope to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Furthermore, I believe in the power of collaboration and teamwork, and I hope to work with diverse individuals from different backgrounds to create an inclusive and innovative work culture. Along with my career goals, I also aim to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritize personal growth and well-being.

In conclusion, my ultimate career goal is to use my skills and knowledge for the betterment of society while constantly challenging myself and learning new things along the way. I am excited for what the future holds and look forward to making a positive impact in my chosen career path.

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How to Write a Career Goals Essay

What Is a Career Goals Essay?

An opportunity to expand, what to avoid in a career goals essay, final thoughts, how to write a career goals essay.

Updated January 15, 2024

Amy Birch

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As the name suggests, a career goals essay is a personal document that outlines your professional plans.

It describes your educational and work history, and your ambitions for the future.

A career goals essay is generally used in three situations:

  • When applying to a school or college
  • When applying for a scholarship to fund education
  • When applying for a new job

It allows the reader to better understand your personality and fully appreciate why you are making the application.

Career goals essays help admissions staff and hiring managers to select the ideal candidates for a position.

What Should a Career Goals Essay Contain?

A little backstory.

This essay is an opportunity for you to allow your personality and experiences to shine, so avoid generic statements.

The document should be personal and concisely describe your life experiences.

You should explain why you have chosen this career path.

If there was a pivotal moment in your life that led you to this application, be sure to highlight it.

Outline Your Goals

The main focus of the essay should be your goals for the future.

Readers want to see that you are ambitious and driven, with a genuine passion for the role or course you are applying for.

These career goals should be split into your short-term goals (looking over the next one to three years) and your long-term goals (which might look as far as 10 years into the future).

Show How This Application Will Help You Reach Your Goals

Critically, your career goals essay must show how this degree or job will help you achieve your goals .

If your long-term goal is to become a veterinary surgeon, studying a veterinary medicine program will obviously be essential.

However, your goal may be more nuanced than that. For example, you might want to become an expert in a particular piece of technology or software. Your application must show how your success in this role will enable you to become an industry leader.

This will also emphasize to the reader that you have done your research and understand the skills required for that particular sector.

You will have likely submitted a CV and covering letter at other points throughout the application process.

Remember, your career goals essay should complement these documents rather than repeat them.

This letter allows you to expand on the points mentioned in the earlier documents, aligning your previous experience with your goals for the future.

If you are writing a career goals essay as part of an application for a new job, be sure to refer back to the job description and person specification.

These documents highlight the exact type of individual the employer is searching for, so be sure your career goals essay matches the content in them.

Most career goals essays will be submitted via email, so an appropriate title is essential.

‘The Career Goals of [Name]’ isn’t a title that will make you stand out from the crowd.

Don’t forget, whether you are applying to a school or an employer, the reader will have the job of sifting through hundreds, if not thousands, of applications .

Where candidates have very similar experiences and education, their creativity and personality will be used to make the final decision.

Example titles:

How a Digital Marketing Degree Will Allow Me to Support Sustainable Businesses
How My Next Role in Nursing Will Help Me Help Others

How to Write a Career Goals Essay (with Examples)

An Introduction

Your introduction should set the theme for the essay, and crucially, outline your why .

Many candidates find the introduction the most challenging part of the essay to write. Therefore, it often makes the most sense to write it last.

Your introduction should be an honest and personable account of why you have chosen this field of study.

Starting with a generic opening paragraph will not inspire or motivate your reader. Stay away from phrases such as “I have wanted to be a lawyer ever since I was a little girl.”

This sentence tells the reader very little about your current aspirations.

It can also damage your integrity, as we all know most small children dream of being a movie star or astronaut before the job of lawyer ever springs to mind.

Example introduction:

Most individuals in the US are lucky enough to never need the law to protect them. However, many fail to see how the intricate details of the constitution support their life every day. I have a particular fascination with criminal law after being introduced to the field by a family friend. The monumental impact a lawyer can have on the life and welfare of an individual truly astounded me, and I have spent the years since investigating the effects of the American legal system. This is why I have tailored my education so far to prepare me for a legal career. I work every day on developing my research and analytical ability, and now feel ready to dedicate myself fully to the legal field.

School-Specific Content

Admissions staff, tutors and hiring managers want to know that their applicants have done their research.

You can show them that you have done yours by adding a small paragraph straight after your introduction showing why you chose this school to study at or this company to work for.

First example of school-specific content:

[Insert company name] has an incredible global reputation, with clients in every continent. I can see that staff retention rates are incredibly high, indicating strong career opportunities and the prospect of continuous development. The company values show that diversity and integrity are of the utmost importance, and I would love the opportunity to work for an organization whose principles align with my own.

Second example of school-specific content:

[Insert school name] is well known for producing the highest caliber of graduates, with an excellent global reputation. The school leaderboards show that the grades from [insert school name] ranked within the top five in the country for the past 10 years. I would be proud to associate myself with an establishment that holds itself in such high regard and am thrilled at the prospect of learning alongside the best.

Your Long-term Vision

Remember, it is crucial you show why and how you are actively working towards these goals. For example, merely stating, 'My long-term goal is to become a lawyer with my own practice’ is worthless.

The reader wants to see how this goal aligns with your personality and why you have chosen this route.

The goals set out in this essay should be precise and meaningful .

Example of long-term vision:

Law is an area of study that affects us all. The law protects us, and I am fascinated by its impact on both an individual and global scale. Of course, I want to graduate with a top-class degree, but I am also passionate about the connections and network I will build along the way. My goal is to open my own practice one day, specializing in family law. At the moment, I volunteer in my local practice, gaining experience and building a network that will help me later in my career. I believe the combination of world-class education and hands-on legal experience will help me to achieve this ambitious long-term goal.

Your Short-term Vision

Next, it is crucial to discuss your short-term goals .

If you're applying to school, your short-term goals will explain what you aim to achieve throughout the degree or program.

For a job application, these goals will outline your targets for your first year in the role.

Example of short-term vision:

In the short term, my goal is to build a network in the legal sector. I have already begun doing this through my weekly volunteering role. However, this degree will undoubtedly allow me to meet a much broader spectrum of people. I am excited to curate this network with a range of legal specialists, from students at the start of their careers to tutors with many years of experience in the industry.

The Conclusion

As with any essay, your conclusion should summarize what you have discussed throughout.

You should not throw in any new ideas, subjects or theories at this point. Otherwise, it indicates to the reader that you have not cohesively written the essay.

Your conclusion should be about the same length as the introduction, mentioning your final goals and the name of the establishment you are applying to.

You must outline again why you want to work for this company or study at this school. Using a statistic or fact will show that you have conducted thorough research.

Example conclusion:

I am immensely excited to begin my experience with [insert school name]. Ultimately, this education will allow me to fulfill my dreams of becoming a lawyer and one day opening my own practice. I will bring hard work, determination and enthusiasm to the law school, never forgetting why I began this journey.

Vague or Weak Statements

Every sentence in your essay should be specific to you.

For example, statements such as ‘I want to study medicine because it will allow me to get a good job’ does not show the reader that you are passionate or enthusiastic about this position.

Discussing Financial Remuneration

Whether the essay is aimed at a prospective employer or a college admissions office, they want to see why you want the position personally.

Someone solely focused on the financial rewards will likely not have longevity in the career.

Controversial Topics

Of course, there will be times where politics and current affairs are relevant to the discussion.

However, showing a one-sided argument that doesn’t align with the readers can alienate your application before you even begin.

A career goals essay is an opportunity for your personality to shine through. It isn’t a test of who has the best grades or the most experience , but a chance to show how this job or degree can change your life.

Although the reader is excited to hear about your goals, they are more interested in how this role links to your ambitions.

Be sure to constantly reflect upon how obtaining a place on this course, or securing the job role, is intrinsically linked to your goals.

A word limit is often applied to career goal essays. Where there is no limit, be sure to write no more than 1,000 words.

This piece should be concise and to the point, showing the reader you can effectively convey your thoughts and ideas.

You might also be interested in these other Wikijob articles:

Career Growth vs Career Development (2024 Guide)

Or explore the Jobs & Careers / Career Planning sections.

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7 Steps for Making a Life Plan

Elizabeth Scott, PhD is an author, workshop leader, educator, and award-winning blogger on stress management, positive psychology, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.

what is your plan in life essay

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

what is your plan in life essay

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Have you ever wished that life came with a user manual? Maybe you’ve wanted to cut stress in your life , exercise more, or change your diet. Or maybe you want to make a career shift or get into (or out of) a relationship. 

Now, think about why you haven’t made those changes yet. Changing your life is often easier dreamed than done. But when you come up with a plan you can follow, the process can be smoother and less stressful. Having a plan also makes it more likely that the life changes you want to make will stick. 

Have you got a goal (or two or three!) in mind? We may not be given definitive guides to life, but we can make life plans that are personalized to our needs and goals. Read on to learn  how to plan your life in seven steps.

Step 1: Look at What's Not Working

When you're getting ready to make a life plan, you first need to figure out what you want—and that includes what you want to change . It can be challenging and overwhelming to even know where to start. So, that's where it will help to "take stock" of what your life is like right now and be honest about what's not working for you.

Your family, friends, job, wellness, finances, home environment, and many other areas of your life can be both sources of joy and stress. Take the time you need to think about each part of your life and be honest about how they affect you (positively and negatively).

Being real with yourself about what's stressing you out is not a failure—it's the first and most important step in making changes to your life.

Keeping a journal can help you explore the different parts of your life and identify sources of stress. You can make a list, narrative, mind map, or use another text/visual format to get a better picture of how things are going and highlight areas you want to work on.

Step 2: List Your Values

Think about what your values. How are those areas of life currently working for you and helping you? When you're making a life plan, work around your values—the things that are important to you and that you want to maintain in your life. 

Do you value family, but find yourself spending too little time with your family because you're working overtime at a job you really don’t even like? Do you value fitness, but find yourself watching TV at the end of the day because you’re exhausted and just want a distraction?

You might be including activities in your life that you don’t value without even realizing it. 

To be sure you're spending your time on what really matters to you, think about what you value most in life. Pay attention to how you express your values through your behaviors. That will mean looking at the things you do in a day and asking yourself if you truly value those activities or not. 

Step 3: Look at the Future

Don’t limit yourself to looking out for a few months—think long-game. Think about where you want to be in the future and what goals you can set now that will help you get there.

What do you want your life in the next few months, years, or even decades to look like? When you've got a picture in your mind, work backward. Going in reverse from your goal will help you clarify what steps you can take right now and in the immediate future to get closer to your longer-term goal. 

For example, if you want to be working in a new field in a few years, maybe now is the time to make connections in that industry and or find training that you could do in your off-hours. 

Making small steps over time can help you reach that bigger goal and be well-prepared for it when you arrive. 

Step 4: Lay Out (Small) Steps

Compare where you'd like to be in the future to where you are right now. Then, break down the path from "here" to "there" into small, manageable steps that will feel easier to take. 

Laying out the steps doesn't just make it less overwhelming; it also helps you stay present and able to  experience your success , which helps keep you feeling positive and motivated. 

At this pace, you’ll also be better able to see where you may need to change your plan as you go along, and can consistently put one step in front of the other and move forward.

Press Play for Advice On Dealing With Perfectionism

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Step 5: Tear Down Road Blocks

As you are planning your steps forward, review your list of "what's not working" and think about what's holding you back from your goals. Find the blocks in the road, then get ready to start tearing them down.

Maybe you really need  less stress in your life today to even get a sense of where you want to be in the future—let alone take the steps needed to get there. 

Go back to your list. Now it's time to make some cuts!

Do you see a lot of commitments, relationships, and other parts of your life that are not absolutely necessary? Do these things drain you rather than make you feel energized and motivated? That’s where to start crossing items off your list. 

It can help to think about every "drain" as a trade-off. Do you really want these things in your life or do you want to be able to take steps toward the things that are really important to you? When you see that you have tangible choices, changes are easier to make. 

Of course, there will be things you wish you could cut out, but you can’t. And that’s OK—that’s life! Instead, try to find ways to reduce these things as much as you can—be it your time, energy, or whatever else you’re giving to these things that aren’t giving much back. 

Step 7: Build Structures and Put Up Boundaries

You want to create systems in your life that will reinforce the changes you want to make. When you have some supportive structures in place, you won’t have to supply all of your own momentum. 

For example, if you want to start working out more often, joining a gym can make the goal feel more “official," and the monetary investment could serve as motivation (especially on days when you really don’t feel like going!). 

If you want to relieve stress, find a self-care practice that you like and make it part of your daily routine. For example, buy yourself a soothing bullet journal or app, and set a calming reminder on your phone to nudge you to write for a few minutes at the end of the day. 

If you want to spend more time with your partner, put a regular date night on your calendar. If you feel like your schedule is full of “to-do” lists and appointments, use that to your advantage!

Just like you wouldn’t want to be late for a work meeting or skip your yearly dental check-up, you might find that framing quality time with your partner as something that’s “not to be missed” can help you practice making it a priority.

Sometimes, we have to remind ourselves that our relationships with others are just as important—if not more so—than all the “have-to-dos” in our lives. That might mean scheduling our loved ones in until we learn that these special times matter, and we shouldn’t feel like we have to brush them off in favor of other responsibilities. 

Setting up structures in your life helps you to follow through on those, "I should start…" plans in your head and make them a reality. 

You also need some boundaries that can act like a protective fence or force field around your time and energy. 

It can be easy to lose track of your needs when you’re constantly putting the needs of others ahead of your own. And if you fall into this pattern so often that you get stuck, the lines between you and someone else can get pretty blurry. What you think are your needs, values, and goals might actually be the other person’s. 

Remember that it’s OK to say no—especially if the thing you’re being asked to take on or do doesn’t align with your values or would actually put you farther from your goals rather than helping you get closer to them. 

It’s also OK to not immediately agree to something and take the time you need to think it over and be sure that the choice you’re making is one that you feel good about. Instead of immediately saying “yes,” try: “Thank you for thinking of me! Can I think about it and get back to you?”

Step 7: Ask for (and Accept) Help Along the Way

You can’t make these changes alone. Asking for—and accepting—help from others will help you stay motivated and on track.

Allowing others to support you could mean delegating tasks that are overloading you or joining a support group to connect with others who are also working on making changes in their lives.

Ask yourself what you need to make your plans happen and what you need to do to make sure they stick. Look to others for ideas and inspiration if you’re not sure what resources you need, or where you find them. 

Just because you’ve decided to start making a plan doesn’t mean the work is done. It’s ongoing! 

Check in with yourself regularly to make sure you’re moving in the direction that you want to go in. If you find yourself letting go of what you value and feel like you’re straying off track, gently guide yourself back to where you’re putting what you value most into action in your life. Being able to refocus is the secret to making life changes last. 

By Elizabeth Scott, PhD Elizabeth Scott, PhD is an author, workshop leader, educator, and award-winning blogger on stress management, positive psychology, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.

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How to Write An Outstanding Career Goals Essay for MBA Programs

A step-by-step approach to conquering the most important part of your mba application, with a full-length career goals essay example worthy of harvard business school.

A student writing a career goals essay at a library

Part 1: What is the career goals essay?

Part 2: how to define your career goals, part 3: how to write a career goals essay, part 4: career goals essay outline, part 5: career goals essay example .

Just as your undergraduate admissions application most likely required you to write a “personal statement,” at the center of almost every MBA application packet is the career goals essay. It can take on many different forms through varying prompts and word count requirements, but the approach to this seminal portion of your MBA application remains the same. No matter which programs you’re applying to, the career goals essay is your chance to explain why you’re applying to business school in the first place.

And, more broadly, this is your chance to demonstrate passion. The dirty little secret to MBA “goals essays” is that no one follows up with you in the future to see if you actually accomplished the goal you wrote about. Did you, for instance, really start that ethically sourced pants company? Did you successfully develop boutique exercise gyms? Start a niche media company? Whatever the goal, the most important aspect of your stated plan is that your choice proves you have a passion for a certain field, and that you’re dedicated to making big changes in that field.   

Much of the MBA is geared toward inviting you to explore new avenues of interest; so, not only is it possible for your goal to change over the course of your MBA educational experience, but it’s expected to.

Why, then, do these programs make such a big deal about your current goal if it’s expected to change? Admissions committees want to know that you’re passionate about something. They want to see how you think about the world, what problems you’ve identified in existing systems, and how you plan to solve them in order to effect long-lasting change. 

They want to see that you have set out to achieve a vision. The vision can change, but it’s imperative that you’re the type of person who has a vision in the first place. That’s the goal of this essay. Show your passion for accomplishing a vision. Show that your engine is revved–that there’s a fire under your feet.

Take a look at a few of the ways top MBA programs word their career goals essay prompts below:

Harvard Essay 1: As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program? (No word-limit)

This prompt seems frighteningly open ended, but Harvard Business School (HBS) is being a little sneaky. The HBS admissions committee doesn’t want you to tell them just anything, as their one-and-only essay prompt might appear at first glance. They want to know why you’re applying, and your answer should center around your long-term goal.

Though there’s no word limit listed, based on our experience working with past successful applicants, you should aim for 750-1000 words. An essay over 1,000 words can bog down a reader, but an essay that’s fewer than 750 words–at least for the HBS application, where this essay is the only chance you have to impress the admissions committee–risks not being robust enough to prove your case that you , amongst thousands of others, deserve a spot in the HBS class.  

With the exception of HBS, most schools don’t disguise their prompts as general personal essays. Most ask you explicitly about your goals. For example:

Columbia Essay 1: Through your resume and recommendations, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next 3-5 years and what, in your imagination, would be your long term dream job? (Word limit: 500 words)

NYU Stern Essay 1: What are your short and long-term career goals? How will the MBA help you achieve them? (500 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font)

Chicago Booth Essay 1: How will the Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals? (250 word minimum)

LBS Essay 1: What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500-word limit)

U. Penn Wharton Essay 1: What do you hope to gain professionally from the Wharton MBA? (500 words)

With these, your task is clear: Why are you applying? What is your goal?

Other top programs word their career goals essay prompts a little differently. Case in point:

Yale Essay 1: Describe the biggest commitment you have ever made. (500 words)

Stanford Essay 1: What matters most to you, and why? (750 words)

For each of these examples, although your approach might take a slightly different slant depending on the wording, one aspect should be absolutely clear: what do you want to achieve in your career, in the short and long term? The “biggest commitment you’ve ever made” absolutely must tie in with your long-term goal. The thing that “matters most to you” needs to be nearly inseparable from what you want to accomplish in the future. Don’t let the different wordings fool you: these are all career goals essay prompts.

There are a handful of exceptions. In their 2018 application, Duke’s Fuqua program, for example, did not ask its applicants about their goals, but instead asked for a more personality-driven “list” essay calling for 25 “fun facts” about yourself. The University of Michigan’s program only asked explicitly about applicants’ short-term goals. However, chances are, if you’re applying to more than one MBA program, you’re going to have to tackle the “career goals essay.”.

In this article, we’re going to walk you through a step-by-step approach for acing your career goals essay. From identifying the “right goal” (because some goals aren’t the right ones to discuss on your MBA application) to breaking down the essay into its requisite components, to avoiding common pitfalls many applicants make, we’ll show you everything you need to know before you attempt to take a first stab at one of these prompts.

But before we begin, we want to lead with an important caveat. What follows will offer you an excellent, time-tested template for how to write a strong career goals essay. That said, the best essays don’t follow a formula. The absolute best-of-the-best essays find their own form that’s most suitable for the individual essay’s content.

What’s the difference between an MBA ‘career goals essay’ and a ‘personal statement’ I might have written for other applications?

A personal statement, by nature, is personal. It can take on a pretty amorphous shape, and oftentimes the more creative you make it, the better. A personal statement’s purpose is to allow an admissions officer to get to know you as a person.

And while admissions committees want to see who you are as a person, they also want to know who you are as a leader.

This is an important distinction. A personal statement can address whatever you want it to, as long as it allows the reader to get to know you more fully. But the career goals essay is far more pointed. In it, your primary job is to show where you’re headed, why it matters (both to you and to the world) and why you’re the best person for the job.

Business schools want to know what kind of impact you’re going to make on the world. If you can work your personality into the mix while doing so, great, but the “personal” should always come secondary to the essay’s primary focus: your future, and the plan you have to achieve it.

Look up “goal” in your nearest dictionary, and you’ll find a definition somewhere along the lines of “the end toward which effort is dedicated.” What does that mean? Who knows! That’s exactly our point. Forget Merriam Webster’s definition. The MBA goal is a totally different beast.

There are two distinct types of “goals” that the “career goals essays” ask for: the long-term goal and the short-term goal. Below, we’ll break down both goal types to help you identify the “right” goal for each.

The Long-term Goal

The long-term goal is your “big picture” vision. It’s what you see yourself accomplishing ten-plus years down the line from receiving your MBA. This should be the culmination of your life’s work, as you see it from your current vantage point.

There’s really no such thing as a long-term goal that’s “too big,” but there are long-term goals that are too general. You don’t want your long-term goal to be something as broad as “saving the world.” In what way will you save the world? What part of the world will you save?

You want a long-term goal that has a big impact, sure, but your reader also needs to believe that you can achieve it. While you need to exhibit passion for a vision, the MBA admissions committee wants to see that you’re level-headed enough to be able to execute on that passion. They want to see that you’ve made a plan, and that an MBA is an essential next-step in accomplishing that plan.

Your long-term goal also needs to be achievable based on your experience. If you studied finance in college and worked as a banker for the past five years, your long-term goal in this essay should not be about curing cancer.

However, if you, our health-conscious banker, do want to move from finance into a cancer-related field, you might define your long-term goal as “optimizing the existing healthcare field using my business expertise.” You might therefore argue that an MBA can help you expand your existing knowledge base into the underlying business principles behind the healthcare field. In this way, the MBA becomes a crucial part of your plan. 

Below, we’re going to give you a check-list to work your way toward choosing a strong long-term goal, but first let’s understand what exactly a long-term goal should look like.

The easiest way to think about the long-term goal is to consider it a solution to a problem that you’re passionate about. That’s the crux of the formula. Let’s break this down into two general types of long-term goals:

1.)   Solve a problem that affects people through an innovation in a field

This is the long-term goal for the free thinking entrepreneurial type. If your ultimate goal is to start your own company, then this is probably the route you want to take. Let’s say you’re passionate about alleviating world hunger. Maybe you have a history with agriculture start-ups, and you’ve seen first-hand the negative effect poor crop yields have on sub-Saharan African farmers. You’ve gained conviction that creating an NGO focused on tool sharing amongst farmers could increase crop yields. Creating this organization would be an innovation that will solve a problem that you care about. In this case, it could be your long-term goal.

2.)   Capitalize on an inefficiency in a field through existing means

Let’s say you don’t have a groundbreaking new idea. No big deal. Not every MBA applicant needs to start their own company. Instead, you could identify an inefficiency as a problem and propose a solution.

Perhaps you work in the tech industry, and you’re focused on semiconductors. You’ve noticed that your company’s manual engineering process is creating a lag-time for your business’s design cycle. Maybe you want to encourage companies like yours to adopt machine learning technology to free up engineers’ time and resources. That’s a way to solve a problem by addressing a current inefficiency. Facilitating the adoption of machine learning into semiconductor engineering could thereby be your long-term goal.

Notice that both of these “goal types” include solving a problem. Selecting a goal that solves a problem is the easiest and most effective approach to writing the career goals essay.

Let’s be real, though. Often, people apply for MBA programs because they want to make more money or change jobs. And here lies one of the most common mistakes applicants make in the career goals essay. Maybe you’re applying for an MBA to get promoted ahead-of-turn, transition out of your role, or get recruited at a bigger firm. That’s fair. But it’s not the “goal” you write about in this essay.

If this describes you, consider this third approach to the career goals essay.

3.)   Create a narrative around your past experience 

If you don’t already have a big solution or problem in mind, you can reverse engineer one using what you’ve already done in the past.

Think about what you studied in college, the career you’ve had so far, your favorite work projects, any extra-professional activities you’ve devoted your free time to--what connects these experiences? If you followed that through-line all the way to fruition, what would your professional life look like?

For example: let’s say you were premed in college but worked in finance afterward. Your longtime passion has been for science, but your work experience is in distressed debt. The through-line here might be that you enjoy solving problems, whether in the lab at school or on a spreadsheet at work.

A strong “goal” could therefore be going into healthcare administration, where you could combine your science knowledge with your financial training to make an impact in the field.

Through this approach, you take what you care about and what you’ve done so far and spin them together into a big-picture goal that makes sense for your future.

Stress test for choosing your long-term goal 

If you’ve now got your long-term goal in mind, run it through our stress-test below to see if it holds water. If you don’t yet know your goal, try to work your way through this stress-test and see where you land.

The first test accounts for categories 1 and 2, innovation and optimization.

Stress Test 1

1.)   Is there a real-world problem you care deeply about?

a.     What keeps you up at night?

b.     If you could change one thing about the world to make it a better place, what would that change be?

2.)   Does the problem relate to your professional history?

a.     If your answer is “YES,” you have the perfect set-up for your MBA goal. This is the problem you’re going to solve.

3.)   Can you dream up a solution?

a.     What job would allow you to work toward solving the problem above?

                                               i. Starting your own company?

                                             ii. Becoming the CEO of an existing company?

1.     This job role = your Long-term Goal

If you breezed through that stress-test, you’re ready to move on. However, if not…

What if that test didn’t work?

If you snagged at some point in the above stress test, even if it was on the very first point, don’t fret. You can reverse engineer a strong career goals essay goal. Here’s how:

Stress Test 2

1.)   Your area of interest. What field do you work in or hope to work in?

a.     Can you genuinely talk about this field to show that it’s your passion ?

b.     Look back over the things you’ve done in your life, professionally and personally. Is there a through-line?

2.)   What’s the major problem facing your area of interest?

3.)   How might you solve that problem? Can you propose a solution?

a.     Is there a job function that might allow you to work toward solving the major problem facing your area of interest?

                                               i. This job role = your Long-term Goal

To reiterate, the most important takeaway from this section is that your long-term goal isn’t just what you hope to do in the future. A strong long-term goal is a solution to a problem that you’re passionate about.

Before moving on to the short-term goal, let’s take a moment to look at how an example applicant approached this stress test. We’ll use her essay to illustrate many of the points we make throughout this guide. Check her out:

Elinor (our example applicant) studied Evolutionary Biology as an undergraduate, but ultimately realized that practicing science (via a career in medicine, etc.) wasn’t her passion. Instead, what she valued most about her biology education was the rigorous, empirical, and experimental framework it gave her to view the world through. In other words, she valued the education itself, and to learn more about the system of higher education, she pursued a one-year Masters Degree in Education post-undergrad. 

Following her masters in education, Elinor landed a job at the Gates Foundation, where she worked for three years to design and implement cost-effective approaches to increasing classroom learning in rural Indian schools. 

Having worked in educational development financing for some time, Elinor is ready to utilize the expertise she’s acquired from the Gates Foundation in order to make a humanitarian impact on higher education in the US, her lifelong passion.

How would Elinor approach the stress-test in order to land on her ultimate goal? Take a look at her answers to the test below:

Access to education. Elinor believes in higher education—it was the singular force that changed her life for the better—and she feels conviction in the idea that everyone deserves access to this type of education, even those who have to work full-time jobs. In fact, she thinks working and education shouldn’t be mutually exclusive… surely there must be a way to get an education while also supporting yourself and your family and not going into a huge amount of debt… but how? Elinor wants to democratize education , thereby ultimately helping to increase socio-economic mobility and help working class people achieve the same goals as the more privileged class through equal access to education.

2.)   Does problem relate to your professional history?

a.     If you answer is “YES,” you have the perfect set-up for your MBA goal. This is the problem you’re going to solve.

YES! Elinor not only has an extensive academic record, having pursued a Masters in Education, but also the financial wherewithal from years of managing the allocation of educational funds in an international setting to potentially figure out a finance-backed solution to the problem of equal access to higher education in the states.

In fact, in addition to her main job function, she’s recently fostered a collaborative partnership between the Gates Foundation and Deloitte consultants to work with Deloitte’s corporate clients in order to provide corporate grants to employees who would like to attend these universities while continuing to work at the corporation.

Elinor’s most recent work with the Deloitte partnership has inspired her to take this initiative and expand it to a national scale. Her ultimate goal is to create her own venture connecting large corporations with universities to provide alternatives to traditional four-year degrees , thereby allowing working class people to access higher education without taking on loads of debt, and continuing to provide for their families in the process.

This job role = your Long-term Goal

And, with that, Elinor has a problem that she is personally passionate about, has the experience to make her the one to solve it, and has a solution in terms of a future job function. Her long-term goal is therefore sound. She’s ready to move on to…

The short-term goal

Your long-term goal should be big. It’s your big dream. You shouldn’t be able to accomplish your long-term goal right away. Even after your MBA, it should take years and years of professional development to reach your long-term goal. If you can achieve your long-term goal immediately after graduating from an MBA program, it’s not your long-term goal.

For example, say your goal is to alleviate poverty in sub-Saharan Africa by helping farmers access useful agricultural technologies. That’s not something you can do in a day. That’s a life’s work, and there will be many steps you’ll need to take to prepare for such a venture after receiving your MBA.

The thing you’ll do directly following your MBA is your short-term goal . Working at Goldman Sachs or McKinsey are fine short-term goals; so is taking a job at any existing company within your desired field in order to build up your skill set, or even launching a start-up venture that begins to address one aspect of your long-term goal.

The most important thing to consider when isolating your short-term goal is whether it tracks with the long-term goal. The purpose of the short-term goal in a career goals essay is to show that you can make a plan that gets you from point A to point D, where point A is all you’ve accomplished to-date, point B is your MBA, and point D is your long-term goal. That leaves you with point C: your short-term goal.

You want to show through the short-term goal that you understand what it takes to pull off something big. MBA admissions committees aren’t looking for wayward dreamers; they’re looking for future leaders who have what it takes to accomplish something special, and what it takes, pretty much always, is a step-wise approach to professional growth.

The short-term goal showcases your follow-through, your ability to plan, and your ability to be precise about how you’ll position yourself to accomplish your long-term goal.  

A helpful formula for thinking about your short-term goal might be:

The skills you gain from an MBA + the experience you gain from your short-term goal = strong preparation for your long-term goal.

Let’s go back to the world hunger example. If you say your long-term goal is to solve world hunger, but your short-term goal is to work at Goldman Sachs, it’s going to sound a little fishy. This is one of the biggest mistakes applicants make. They set awe-inspiring, impactful long-term goals, but then their short-term goal is to get recruited at top finance or consulting firm.

Let’s be clear: After an MBA, going into finance or consulting is a perfectly reasonable thing to do. In fact, the majority of MBA graduates do it. You’ve just paid a lot of money for a degree, so it’s fair that you want to earn it back.

That said, you need to reconcile your short-term goal with your long term vision. So, you’ll need to specify the type of experience you intend to gain from Goldman that will help you alleviate hunger. Maybe you’ll work as an investment banker to learn the ins-and-outs of raising capital for new businesses, and one day apply this capital-raising expertise to your own developing business aimed at solving world hunger. That tracks. That’s a solid short-term goal.

However, you could strengthen it further by claiming that you aim to take up a position in Goldman’s nonprofit wing to specialize in raising capital for the types of businesses that you eventually want to start. Remember, it’s fine if your plans change. What’s important here is that you prove you have the follow-through required to complete any goal at all, and part of that means proving you’re the type of person who can form a step-wise, sensible plan.  

The best way to think about your short-term goal is to consider it as part of your 10,000 hours of practice leading up to your long-term goal . In your MBA program, you’ll learn a lot of theory and study a lot of real-world business cases. The MBA should prepare you with the skills necessary to accomplish your long-term goal.

However, these skills won’t be fine-tuned or tested in real-world business scenarios. You’ll need to put the iron to the fire, and the “fire,” in this idiom, is your short-term goal. A well-chosen short-term goal allows you to put into practice what you’ve learned through your MBA in order to prepare you for your long-term goal.

Let’s refer back to our example applicant. Elinor knows first-hand about education, and she also knows a lot about financial allocation in an educational setting. However, Elinor has never run a business on her own; so, before Elinor can make her own venture fund that connects universities with corporate support, she’ll need to gain management skills.

She has no idea how to start her own fund or manage workers, but that’s exactly what she can gain through her MBA. The MBA will connect her with resources and networks while also giving her management skills to start her own fund and assemble a team. 

However, immediately following her MBA, she likely won’t be ready to execute her vision. She’ll need to practice the skills she’s learned in order to prepare for her long-term goal.

How could a future education innovator best prepare to tackle her vision? There are a few possibilities. She could join an education startup with similar aims as her own–perhaps one like Glimpse K12, which works with education finance, where she could learn best practices.

However, it’s important to note that she could do this without an MBA. So, if her short-term goal is joining Glimpse , she should argue that she’ll leverage her MBA skill set to expand Glimpse beyond their K12 platform and into the higher education space, where her passion lies. That’s a strong short-term goal that makes use of her MBA.

Or, perhaps she prepares for her education finance venture by tackling the problem from the academic side–she could round out her financial background by joining a university’s administrative office in order to understand their needs and foresee potential problems associated with bringing corporations into the fold.

In this example, she could leverage the business skills she gained through her MBA to begin a trial run of her future vision with this one university, working to find corporate partnerships for that specific university in the hopes of later branching out into a national platform.

Yet another option would be to join a specific corporation and work the partnership from the corporate side. No matter the short-term goal, there’s one thing in common: she’s using her managerial skill-set to practice for her future long-term goal. Each option takes her one step closer to reaching her goal post-MBA.

Before you put pen to paper or open up that blank Word doc, make sure you’ve spent ample time brainstorming the above information. The hardest part of acing the career goals essay takes place before you ever start writing. Be certain that you have your long- and short-term goals solid and ready to go before you approach the actual writing of the essay. Take your time on the pre-writing preparation.

But once you’ve done all that, it’s time to write.

Below, we’ve devised an easy-to-digest strategy to help you convey your short- and long-term goals in a manner that will have the admissions committees begging you to join their programs. We’ve broken down the actual writing of the career goals essay into distinct components.

Though we encourage you to think of these components as key concepts to include in your essay, we don’t necessarily advise that you break these components out into distinct paragraphs like we’ve done below. We’re breaking them down into paragraphs to give you a solid template to work with, but again, the best essays will find their own forms that go beyond the high school five-paragraph essay.

In any case, every solid career goals essay should touch upon the below concepts in some manner, so following our structure below is a great way to churn out a first draft. The art, then, comes in revision.

Before moving on, be sure you can answer yes to both questions below:

1.)   Is your long-term goal a solution to a problem that you’re passionate about?

2.)   Is your short-term goal a stepping stone between your MBA and your long-term goal?

If both answers are “yes,” then let’s get to writing.

As with any essay, the career goals essay should have a beginning, middle, and end. You’ll need an introduction that presents an argument (your long-term goal is your argument, as you’ll see) a body that substantiates your position on the argument, and a conclusion that reminds us why it matters in the first place.

For the purpose of this breakdown, we’re going to assume we’re working with the HBS essay prompt, as their word-count of around 1,000 words is the most daunting. Even for a shorter essay, though, you’ll want to aim to cover most of these points, but you’ll do it in a more condensed fashion. If the school conducts interviews, you'll have an opportunity to elaborate in your MBA interview .

Remember the goal of the career goals essay. Demonstrate a passion for a problem, and convince the admissions committee that you are the type of person who can solve it. You can show off that passion in 1,000 words or 250 words. No matter the essay’s length, the heart of your approach is the same.

The introduction

Part 1: the problem. 

For the Class of 2021, HBS reportedly received about 10,000 applications. Though HBS is one of the largest MBA programs, with almost 1,000 people per class, the sheer number of applicants means that most everyone who applied was rejected.

Given that your essay is going to be read alongside nearly 9,999 others, how do you hook a reader at the start? What gets your attention when you’re reading a news article or a novel, watching a movie, or listening to someone else recount a real-life anecdote?

Oftentimes, what hooks us is a problem. If you can turn your reader’s attention to a problem with real-world effects, they’ll likely want to read more. Think back to your long-term goal. You’re planning to solve a major problem, right?

If that’s the case (and it should be) then your first couple of sentences needs to establish the problem. Do this in as compelling a way as possible. Set the scene. Dramatize. Paint the picture. Give us stakes to sink our teeth into. The reader has to feel that this problem needs to be solved. And problems need to be solved when they have a negative impact, so try to state clearly exactly what’s wrong.

An important caveat: you’re not just trying to prove that your chosen problem matters in general. You need to argue why it matters to you . In other words, why do you care? Do you have a connection to the problem? Has the problem affected you negatively either in your personal or professional life? Establish this connection as early as possible.

The problem’s connection to you can be as personal as you’d like to make it. Our banker applicant could have been inspired to go into the healthcare industry because he saw first-hand how the business operations of the healthcare industry failed someone he cared about, and he’s been inspired to use his business skills to help fix it. That would be an extremely personal, human response to a problem.

However, your connection to the problem doesn’t need to be touchy-feely, and you shouldn’t try to force a deeply personal connection if the problem doesn’t warrant it.

For example, our software engineering example probably doesn’t have a deeply personal reason to care about increasing semiconductor design efficiency, but it is her business to do so. If she’s an engineer who’s personally felt the adverse effects of manual semiconductor design and knows how much more she and other engineers like her could do if she optimized the process via machine learning, then there’s a problem that she cares about.

In this example, the software engineer would begin her essay with the problem–explaining what the current design process is like and how that’s affecting the company and industry. She’d use statistics and projections to substantiate her claims.

Then, she’d argue why it matters to her. She’s devoted the past five years of her life to semiconductor engineering, many more if you count her educational years–that means she’s spent countless hours doing something that could be facilitated by machine learning!

The problem affects her directly through her past work experiences, and it affects the industry at large, too. She’s felt this problem’s affects firsthand and cares about it because it’s what she does for a living. Placing herself at the center of the problem makes the problem personal. Making the problem personal is essential to arguing that she is the best person to solve it.

In the first half of your introduction, you should aim to accomplish two things: 

1.)   Establish the problem and convince your reader it needs to be solved. Set the stakes.

2.)   Argue that YOU are the one to solve it. Why do you care?

After you’ve established the problem and placed yourself at the forefront of the issue, you’re ready to move on to the second part of the introduction: the solution.  

Part 2: the solution.

Remember, your long-term goal is the solution to the problem above. Once you’ve established the problem and demonstrated why you’re passionate about solving it, it’s time to dive into how you plan to solve it. Here’s how to do that.

1.)   What is currently being done to address the problem?

Chances are, you’re not the first person who’s noticed this problem. In fact, if the problem is big enough, you shouldn’t be the only person who knows about it. Crop yields in sub-Saharan Africa? People know that’s a problem.

What’s currently underway to solve for it? What’s needed? How has the industry attempted, and failed, to solve the problem in the past? We need to get a sense that this problem is not easy to solve. If it’s easy, why would you need to devote your life’s work to solving it? Why would you need an MBA? Complex problems require complex solutions, and we need to feel the complexity at play in order to understand why it’s your long-term goal. 

2.)   What do YOU bring to the table that others don’t?

So, you’ve identified a problem that matters to you, and you’ve discussed its complexity. What makes you think that YOU can solve it? Others have tried, but they’re missing some important component that you’ll be able to bring to the issue based on your unique expertise. What is your unique expertise?

3.)   Your solution.

Now’s the time to propose your solution. If you’ve successfully argued points 1 and 2 above, then you’ll have the reader on the edge of her seat awaiting how you plan to fix it. Frame your solution in terms of your expertise. 

You want to bring your knowledge of machine learning into a field that doesn’t currently utilize it. You want to use your entrepreneurial prowess to start a tool-sharing organization for farmers. You want to leverage your financial background to streamline cancer research funding. How do you plan to attack the problem you laid out above to solve it?

4.)   To accomplish this solution, what business role will you take?

This is your long-term goal . In order to solve XX problem through YY means, you’ll do ZZ business role. The long-term goal is ZZ, the job. The job will allow you to solve the problem above. 

It’s not enough to state the problem and a solution. The career goals essay requires you to frame that solution within a job function. Maybe you want to start your own company. Maybe you want to be CFO of an existing company. Maybe you want to invent a new job in an existing field.

The possibilities are endless, but you need to end your introduction by assigning a job title to your future that will allow you to accomplish the above. An admissions committee doesn’t want a solution that’s floating around as an idea . Ground your solution in a job function.

An optional finish: as icing on the cake, to cap off your introduction, tie in the MBA. You’ll cover the “why MBA” portion of your argument more extensively in the essay’s body paragraphs, but for now, just hint at it. You want to solve this important problem by becoming this job function, but first, you need an MBA. This way, the adcom gets a strong sense of what’s coming in the next few paragraphs.

And, with that, you’ll have a solid introduction that hooks the reader and keeps them invested in both this essay and your application as a whole. To recap: 

1.)   The problem

2.)   Why it matters to you

3.)   What’s been done / what’s needed?

4.)   How your particular expertise can contribute

5.)   Your solution in terms of a job function

This might seem like a lot for an introduction, but you can cover many of these components in a sentence or two, if they’re strong. For a 1,000-word essay, plan on devoting around 250-300 words on your intro.

No matter the length of the essay, plan to devote a solid quarter of your available word-count to introducing your take on the problem at-hand. Your introduction is the most important part of the essay, so don’t skimp. 

At the end of this article, we’ve posted a full-length HBS essay example to show our advice in practice, but for now, take a look at that essay’s introduction to see how one applicant, Elinor, utilized our advice to demonstrate passion for a problem and hook the readers. Below, you’ll find Elinor’s introduction followed by a breakdown of how and why it works:

Due to financial constraints and familial obligations, neither of my older brothers were able to attend college. Instead, after graduating high school, they joined the corporate workforce, and to this day my brothers mark their biggest regret as not having been afforded the same opportunity for educational advancement as I was given. Unlike my brothers, a string of strong test scores allowed me to leave my rural hometown for the Ivory halls of Princeton University, where need-based financial aid provided the chance to study a field that always fascinated me: Human Evolutionary Biology. 

Throughout my studies, I became enthralled by the scientific turn of mind involved in asking and answering complex questions through straightforward, repeatable experimental methods. For example, my thesis research aimed to discover more about the genetic underpinnings of bipedalism in humans, and through a rigorous bioinformatics comparison between humans and other primates, we were able to isolate a potentially interesting gene region for future study. Though I loved biology, as most of my peers began the medical school application process, I realized my passion didn’t lie in practicing science, but rather in the framework through which science had allowed me to take complicated questions and distill them down to measurable, testable parts. In other words, what I loved most about my science education wasn’t the science, but the education itself. Access to higher education transformed the way I think about the world–a frame of mind that was not afforded to my brothers and so many like them due to the steep financial costs associated with most avenues of higher education. I believe that everyone–even those who must join the workforce to support themselves and their families–should have the option to better themselves through education.

It’s no secret that my generation is plagued with student loans, and the fear of compounding interest rates deters many from post-high-school education. Having pursued a Masters in Education from Yale University before joining the Gates Foundation where I focused on the financial allocation for educational development in rural Indian schools, I’ve become well-versed in both the system of higher education and the ways in which financial institutions can bolster humanitarian efforts. My goal is to leverage my passion for education and my experience with education finance to create a fund that will increase access to higher education in the US  through corporate partnerships with universities, ultimately providing powerful alternatives to education finance for employees who, like my brothers, were forced to choose work over college.

Through her introduction, Elinor provided the admissions committee with a personal problem that she is both passionate about and uniquely positioned to solve. Let’s break down her introduction into the outline we laid out above:

1.)   The problem.

a.     Elinor believes in higher education, but tuition and interest rates on student loans are prohibitive to many.

2.)   Why it matters to you.

a.     Elinor’s life has been forever changed by higher education–she approaches problems differently than she would have without going to college. Conversely, her brothers (making it personal to her own lived experience) didn’t get this life-changing opportunity because they had to go to work after high school, and she wants to change the education finance landscape in order to allow future students like her brothers to have access to higher ed.

a.     She mentions student loans as the only viable option, but also points out how compounding interest rates make this option less than ideal. There’s a void to be filled.

4.)   How your particular expertise can contribute.

a.     She demonstrates her passion for education via her lively discussion of her undergraduate studies and her commitment to the system of education through her masters degree. She also includes the financial expertise she’s gained through her work with the Gates Foundation (which the admissions committee will see on her resume.) These two attributes (education and finance) uniquely position her to make moves in the future of education finance.

5.)   Your solution in terms of a job function.

a.     Elinor states that she will start a fund that works to partner universities with corporations, thereby creating an alternative means of education finance that would solve the problem her brothers experienced. Her job function would be “fund manager,” and it could certainly solve her problem.

With that, Elinor has followed our outline and constructed a compelling introduction to her essay.

The Career Goals Essay body paragraphs: an overview.

With a strong enough introduction, you’ll have your reader locked into the rest of the essay. So, what now? Below, we’ve broken down the body paragraphs of your “goals essay” into distinct units. Take a look:

Career Goals Essay Body paragraph 1: what you’ve done so far 

In the first body paragraph of your essay, you have one task: establish yourself as the expert.  You’ve hinted at this in the “why you” component of your intro, but now’s the time to set it in stone.

Think of your first body paragraph as your audition for the role of your long-term goal. You obviously haven’t tried to tackle your long-term vision yet, and you won’t for many, many years to come; so, here, you want to use what you have already tackled in the past as proof that you’ll be perfectly able to keep hacking away at your long-term goal. Here’s the process: 

Step 1: review your resume. Know it inside and out. You’ll be pulling from this document a lot while fleshing out this first paragraph. 

(Suggested reading: The Perfect MBA Resume )

Step 2: Ask yourself: what have you done already to help prepare you for your long-term goal? If you made it through our stress-test above, then your long-term goal should be intrinsically tied to your field of interest and current profession. Therefore, all of your accomplishments to-date are fair game for this “audition.”

Step 3: Skills. Your resume is a list of accomplishments. The admissions committee will read your resume. They’ll know all about the great things you’ve done for your past places of business.

What we need to focus on here are the skills beneath those accomplishments. Professional accomplishments are one-offs, but the skills it took to accomplish those feats are transferable . These skills will prove to the admissions committee that you can successfully realize your long-term goal.

In this paragraph, you’re trying to prove to the admissions committee that you’re prepared to do what you’ve set out to do. You can begin this paragraph with a transition from your introduction—something like, “I’ve already begun working toward this goal.” 

From that launching pad, show your reader how . What did you study in undergrad? What really got your gears turning? How did you move from your studies to your first place of work? Why? What skills did you gain from that first position? Did you use those skills to accomplish something great in your next job?

Build this accumulation of skills until the reader understands that you’re the expert for the goal you want to accomplish. They should get the sense that you’re uniquely positioned to take on this long-term goal based on your passions, interests, skills and experiences.

The biggest pitfall applicants stumble into in this first paragraph is simply listing off their resume. Do not list accomplishments or jobs. Instead, map what skills you’ve gained while facing certain problems in the past, and showcase the types of groundbreaking, brag-worthy solutions those skills led you to.

Take a look at Elinor’s example essay’s first body paragraph below:

I’ve already begun working toward this goal by launching an initiative called Mission: Yield, a collaborative partnership I fostered between the Gates Foundation and Deloitte consultants. While I continued my day-to-day work with the Foundation to design and implement cost-effective approaches to increasing classroom learning in rural Indian schools, I also wanted to test the waters on my long-term goal of working with corporations to help employees access higher education in the US. 

The goal of this partnership was to apply the financial allocation wherewithal of my Gates Foundation team to one of Deloitte’s corporate clients and create a tuition-assistance model for attending a local public university while employees continued their professional growth. I began by recruiting three teammates from the Foundation and three from Deloitte to volunteer their time to drum up interest. From there, I utilized my Masters in Education training to strategize with our university partner while coordinating dialogue between my Deloitte teammates and their corporate client. Through my team’s diligent efforts on this initiative, we were able to institute a first-wave test case that allowed twenty corporate employees to enroll part-time at the university. As the partnership enters its third year, we project over one hundred employees to enroll at the university with the help of our financial allocation efforts.     

Let’s break down Elinor’s first body paragraph to explain how it’s working:

1.)   Establish yourself as the expert. 

a. Most of Elinor’s work at the Gates Foundation involves financial allocation to rural Indian schools, but that day-to-day function doesn’t necessarily align with her long-term goal in US higher education.

So, she notes her regular job role in one sentence (“While I continued my day-to-day work with the Foundation to design and implement cost-effective approaches to increasing classroom learning in rural Indian schools...”) and focused the paragraph on the one professional experience that best positions her as an expert in the field of alternative finance routes for higher education: her own initiative, Mission: Yield.

Through this specific example, she shows she’s passionate about her goal and has unique leadership experience in the field.  

2.)   Skills.

a. Elinor doesn’t list off accomplishments–instead, she focuses on the skills she used. She notes that she forged a collaborative partnership between two otherwise independent organizations, managed a team of six, and managed both halves of her team as they worked between the university and the corporation. All of these are MBA-applicable skills, and they showcase that she’s the type of person who has the potential to become a BUSINESS LEADER of the future. She also tells us about some of the quantitative impact of her work, which isn’t always possible to show, but is good to refer to if possible.  

Body paragraph 2: skill gaps

After you argue for the skills you have, it’s time to discuss the skills you need . Let’s say you absolutely nail the first body paragraph. Great. You’ve convinced your reader that you’re the person for the job.

That leaves one major question, though. If you already have all these skills, why don’t you just go ahead and tackle your long-term goal? Or why not stay on your current track? Tons of business leaders reached their long-term goals without MBAs. Why do you need one?

There are tons of reasons one might apply for an MBA: a higher paying job, a career transition, an ahead-of-time promotion, social cache, you name it. However, as far as the career goals essay is concerned, there’s only one good reason for your application: you currently lack skills that you need to reach your long-term goal. That’s it. For the purpose of this essay, you’re applying because of a specific skill gap that you can only fill through an MBA education.

To be one of the lucky few chosen to enter the esteemed halls of a top MBA program, you need to prove that an MBA is the essential and inevitable next step at this stage of your career. That means you’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve gone as far as you can go along your current trajectory, turned over every available stone, and now you need to gain other skills before continuing to strive toward achieving your goal.

How do you accomplish this in your essay? Simple: focus on broader skills .

In most cases, one can gain all the necessary technical skills on-the-job. That’s what jobs are for–to help you master one thing. If you work in distressed debt at an investment bank, you’re going to know everything there is to know about leveraged buyouts.

But if you’ve mastered the skills associated with your job role, and you need to, say, start your own company in order to accomplish your long-term goal, then you have an excellent reason to apply to an MBA—because there are skills involved with managing an organization that you simply can’t gain from the technical parameters of your current job.

In your first paragraph, you might list the skills that demonstrate that you’re an expert in a specific field. In this second paragraph, you’ll want to broaden those skills to the leadership, management, structural and organizational skills that make up the bread-and-butter of a top MBA program.

The MBA is designed to take experts with potential and help them to see that potential through to its fruition by turning them into business leaders . Therefore, you might need softer skills associated with the growing responsibility of leadership and management. Try to drill into those overarching skills in this paragraph of your “goals essay.”

Here’s how Elinor succinctly included her skill gaps: 

Though my work with Mission: Yield proved that it is in fact possible to find alternative routes to educational finance for corporate workers, this success has only inspired me to attempt to expand this work to a national scale. In order to tackle alternative educational finance on a broader scope, I’ll need to gain managerial and strategy skills through an MBA. Working between for-profit corporations and public universities will require managing teams of experts on both fronts, and creating my own fund will require organizational and strategic planning that I can’t attain from my current job function at the Gates Foundation. Therefore, I’m applying to HBS’s managerial program to best prepare me for my future as a leader in alternative education financing. 

In these few sentences, Elinor completed the necessary task of convincing the admissions committee that she can’t complete her long-term goal by staying the course in her current job.

Sure, she has experience partnering one university with a corporation, but if she’s going to go national with her venture, she’s going to need leadership and management training that she can only attain through an MBA.

Elinor has established a problem she’s passionate about solving, proven that she’s an expert in the field, and made the case that she needs an MBA to gain the overarching skills needed to expand her vision. All of the work she’s done thus far will remain consistent with every “goals essay” she writes. From this point on, the essay will be different for every program she applies to.

Body paragraph 3: Why an MBA? Why this MBA?

By this point, you’re about two-thirds through your essay. You’ve established an important problem, argued a solution, explained how you’ve mastered certain skills that will propel you toward providing that solution, and noted the skill-gaps you need to fill before you can continue down the road of your long-term goal.

Now, it’s time to look ahead at the MBA. You need to argue that an MBA–and, importantly, how a particular MBA program–will allow you mend the above-noted skill gap and launch you into your future success.

This is the “why MBA” portion of your essay. Brace yourself, because it requires research. 

Depending on the skills you say you need in order to accomplish your long-term goal, this paragraph may take on different forms. Here’s the key: focus on the particular offerings of the specific program. While the contents of your introduction and first couple of body paragraphs can easily be repurposed for all of your “goals essays,” if the “why MBA” paragraph looks the same for one program as it does for another, you’re doing something wrong.

The truth is that most MBA programs offer the same kinds of skill-based training as every other MBA program, but that’s not what the admissions committees want to hear from you.

Consider this paragraph like a first date with an MBA program. It doesn’t matter that you’re also going on first dates with a handful of other programs this week. If you want this first date to go well, you’ve got to make your date feel special. Getting to know the program you’re applying to and being specific about how its independent offerings are particularly appealing to mending your skill-gap will go a long way

Let’s get into the weeds a bit more on writing this paragraph.

1.)   Why get an MBA?

You can start this paragraph by transitioning from the discussion of your skills and skill gaps into why you need an MBA in general. If you’re short on words, you can skip straight to getting particular about a specific program, but if you have the space, a light touch on this will do. Simply stress that an MBA is the right next step, explain why taking a break from work to go back to school is the right choice right now, and then move on to discussing the program you’re applying to.

2.)   Why this MBA?

Take the skills you lack in the paragraph above and scour the internet for any information you can find on the specific program’s particular offerings that relate to those skills. You want to argue that an MBA from this program will allow you to mend your skill gaps. A few ways to approach this:

a.)   Courses.

a.     Investigate their course catalogue, focusing on higher level electives in the field of your long-term goal. Remember, every MBA will offer “Introduction to Management” in some capacity, so skip those generics. You want to isolate a few specific classes that pique your interest and align with the skills you need to develop.

b.)   Faculty

a.     Is there someone at the program who’s done research into the problem you want to solve? Could you get guidance from them? Have you read any pertinent books published by a faculty member? How will you utilize this program’s esteemed faculty to help you mend your skill gaps and learn more about your long-term goal?

c.)   Extracurricular activities

a.     Outside the classroom, what’s available to you? Every MBA program has a consulting club, but is there something specific about Stanford’s consulting club that is uniquely beneficial to you? Is there a student run organization that expressly focuses on honing the types of skills you need for your long-term goal?

d.)   Location

a.     Does the program’s proximity or connectedness to your particular area of interest help you in reaching your long-term goal? Do they have strong relationships with nearby companies in your desired field? For instance, Boston is a hub for pharmaceuticals. New York is the financial capital of the world. Duke has access to agriculture. Can you use a program’s location to your benefit?

e.)   Alumni network

a.     Every MBA program boasts about their extensive alumni network, but is there something particular about one program’s network that could help you? Is there a specific alum who is working toward your long-term goal who you would want to collaborate with or seek advice from in the future?

The above list contains just a handful of ideas to convince the admissions committee that you can get what you need from their program. The more you know about a given program, the more compelling examples you’ll find.

To reiterate, the biggest mistake applicants make in this section is being too general. If something you list exists at all MBA programs, it doesn’t belong here, or at least you need to argue that there’s something unique about this program’s variation on that offering that piques your interest, specifically.

Take a look at how Elinor approached this section for her HBS essay below:

To gain the skills needed to launch my education finance fund, I’ll utilize the HBS curriculum’s emphasis on experiential learning through interactive case studies. In courses such as “Startup Incubator,” I’ll learn the skills necessary to launch a venture from scratch, and I’ll workshop it alongside my peers’ initiatives in HBS’s “Social Initiative Venture Program” to better measure its potential impact. I also plan to work with the HBS Impact Fund to gain firsthand experience in fund management. 

Beyond coursework, I’ll learn from peers with similar interests by joining the HBS Education Club, where I’ll contribute my experience from my Masters to the club’s ongoing collaboration with the Harvard School of Education. I also look forward to utilizing HBS’s extensive alumni network to seek out mentorship and advice as I embark on my education finance venture in the future.

In these paragraphs, Elinor gets specific, and these specifics work to her advantage as they prove that she has done her homework on HBS and understands how their curricular and extracurricular offerings can help her reach her goal. She names specific courses and clubs, and even talks about branching out to other schools within Harvard’s educational ecosystem. She mentions how her past experiences at Yale could help her contribute to the HBS education club and ends with a nod to the alumni network–all good marks showing how she’ll make the most of her time at the program.

Body paragraph 4: short-term goal

You’re almost done with your body paragraphs, but first, do you remember that short-term goal we had you think up before starting work on the essay? Here’s where that comes into play. If your long-term goal is big enough—and it should be—then you won’t be ready to tackle it for some time after completing your MBA.

So, what will you do immediately following your graduation?

Remember what you’ve just argued above. You’ve just said you lack certain skills that you’ll gain from a particular MBA program, and you’ve discussed how you’ll go about gaining those skills over the course of the program. Following that logic, you’ll want to carry those skills you just gained into your professional life post-MBA.

Your proposed career move after your MBA should line up with the skills you will gain through courses, extracurricular activities, networking, etc.. Frame your short-term career goals as a test-case for these skills.

Let’s return to the example of someone who wants to alleviate poverty amongst sub-Saharan African farmers. She could argue that, at HBS, she’d learn the managerial skills necessary to start her own company that brings up-to-date agriculture technologies to this underserved community.

A strong short-term goal could therefore be to work in the agricultural practice of a foundation like Gates or Rockefeller, whose wide purview in development could help her better understand agricultural best practices in international development. In this example, the skills she gained from HBS were general skills that would help any entrepreneur succeed, and her short-term goal provided specific practice utilizing those skills within her long-term field.

Though the short-term goal needs to be a solid choice that exhibits follow-through and shows how you can form a plan, you don’t actually need to devote a great deal of your precious word-count to discussing it. It’s an essential puzzle piece of a successful career goals essay, but you can likely cover it in a couple of sentences, especially in a shorter iteration of the essay.

Take a look at Elinor’s approach below:

In order to put into practice the skills I’ll gain at HBS before taking on my long-term goal, directly following my MBA I’ll join an education start-up like Glimpse K12 and employ my managerial and strategic expertise to pioneer the expansion of their platform into the higher education space. Learning the best practices of an education venture in its earliest iteration will help prepare me for the trials I’ll face when working to increase access to education through university-to-corporate partnerships.

This is a short segment goes a long way in showing the admissions committee that Elinor has formed a plan–her long-term goal isn’t just a dream floating in the distance; she’s ready to tackle it step-by-step, and her first step is gaining the necessary skills from an MBA.

Notice that, in the full-length version below, this section runs directly into her conclusion. If your short-term goal requires more information, you might want to give it its own paragraph. Otherwise, feel free to allow this short-term goal to segue your essay into its final push.

The conclusion

Your conclusion can be short and sweet, but it needs to accomplish two things:

1.)   Circle back to the problem you laid out in the introduction.

We’ve learned a lot about you throughout the essay, and so there’s a good chance we forgot the problem you were so passionate about solving to begin with. This problem is what hooked the admissions committee in the first place, and it will be what they remember when they decide to admit you, provided you remind them about it in your concluding move.

Try to hit the following points regarding your problem:

a.)   Remind us why it matters.

b.)   Remind us that you’ve devoted your professional life to taking steps toward solving it.

c.)   Remind us that YOU are the one to solve it, and that you’ll do so through your long-term goal .

2.)   Make your final claim: only with an MBA from this particular program can you accomplish your long-term goal.

The conclusion is your final case to the admissions committee that they should admit you into their program. Remind them what you care about and how hard you’ve worked up to this point, and then hit them with the idea that, only with their help, can you accomplish this amazing, important life goal.

By the end of your essay, you want the admissions committee to feel as though, if they don’t accept you, they’ll be culpable for this problem never being solved. Of course, that’s a bit of a stretch, but you get the idea. Leave them rooting for you, and you’ll be well on your way to hanging that fancy MBA diploma on your office wall.

Here's Elinor’s conclusion, including the short-term goal above:

Ultimately, I feel passionate about education and the innumerable, lifelong benefits it can yield. Even today, years after studying bipedalism, I still use the scientific turn of mind I gained through my studies to dissect problems on a daily basis. Higher education isn’t only about what you study; it’s about how you learn to think. I believe everyone–no matter their financial situation–should have access to such transformative educational experiences, and I want to help make that happen.

I’ve devoted a large portion of my professional career to employing finances to enhance education, and I feel confident that, once I’m equipped with the leadership skills I’ll gain from HBS, I can make sure that even those people like my brothers, who were forced to join the workforce directly out of high school, can still pursue higher education without crushing financial stress. Through pioneering an educational fund and partnering with corporations and universities, I can provide an alternative route to higher education and ultimately help improve socio-economic mobility on a national scale.

We’ve covered a ton of ground in this article, and if your head is spinning, we don’t blame you. To help, we’ll end with a recap of all we’ve discussed. Below, find a bare-bones outline of the structure for a solid “career goals essay.”

1.)   Introduction

a.     Establish the problem.

b.     Why does it matter?

c.     Why is it complex?

d.     Why are you the one to solve it?

e.     Propose a solution.

f.      Long-term goal = business role that will allow you to solve this problem.

2.)   Body

a.     What skills have you gained working toward this goal?

                                               i. Focus on transferable skills.

b.     What skills do you need?

                                               i. These skills should be able to be gained from an MBA.

c.     How will you gain these skills at an MBA?

                                               i. Get specific: this MBA.

d.     Short-term goal = How you will use these MBA skills post-MBA.

3.)   Conclusion

a.     Remind us of your passion for the problem.

b.     Final plea for admission: only with an MBA from this institution can you solve this important problem.

Part 5: Career goals essay example

Throughout my studies, I became enthralled by the scientific turn of mind involved in asking and answering complex questions through straightforward, repeatable experimental methods. For example, my thesis research aimed to discover more about the genetic underpinnings of bipedalism in humans, and through a rigorous bioinformatics comparison between humans and other primates, we were able to isolate a potentially interesting gene region for future study. 

Though I loved biology, as most of my peers began the medical school application process, I realized my passion didn’t lie in practicing science, but rather in the framework through which science had allowed me to take complicated questions and distill them down to measurable, testable parts. In other words, what I loved most about my science education wasn’t the science, but the education itself. Access to higher education transformed the way I think about the world–a frame of mind that was not afforded to my brothers and so many like them due to the steep financial costs associated with most avenues of higher education. I believe that everyone–even those who must join the workforce to support themselves and their families–should have the option to better themselves through education.

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Pursuing higher education.

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Choosing a Fulfilling Occupation

Leaving a lasting mark on the world.

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Essays That Worked

what is your plan in life essay

The essays are a place to show us who you are and who you’ll be in our community.

It’s a chance to add depth to something that is important to you and tell the admissions committee more about your background or goals. Below you’ll find selected examples of essays that “worked,” as nominated by our admissions committee. In each of these essays, students were able to share stories from their everyday lives to reveal something about their character, values, and life that aligned with the culture and values at Hopkins.

Read essays that worked from Transfer applicants .

Hear from the class of 2027.

These selections represent just a few examples of essays we found impressive and helpful during the past admissions cycle. We hope these essays inspire you as you prepare to compose your own personal statements. The most important thing to remember is to be original as you share your own story, thoughts, and ideas with us.

what is your plan in life essay

Ordering the Disorderly

Ellie’s essay skillfully uses the topic of entropy as an extended metaphor. Through it, we see reflections about who they are and who they aspire to be.

what is your plan in life essay

Pack Light, But Be Prepared

In Pablo’s essay, the act of packing for a pilgrimage becomes a metaphor for the way humans accumulate experiences in their life’s journey and what we can learn from them. As we join Pablo through the diverse phases of their life, we gain insights into their character and values.

what is your plan in life essay

Tikkun Olam

Julieta illustrates how the concept of Tikkun Olam, “a desire to help repair the world,” has shaped their passions and drives them to pursue experiences at Hopkins.

what is your plan in life essay

Kashvi’s essay encapsulates a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and the invaluable teachings of Rock, their 10-year-old dog. Through the lens of their companionship, Kashvi walked us through valuable lessons on responsibility, friendship, patience, and unconditional love.

what is your plan in life essay

Classical Reflections in Herstory

Maddie’s essay details their intellectual journey using their love of Greek classics. They incorporate details that reveal the roots of their academic interests: storytelling, literary devices, and translation. As their essay progresses, so do Maddie’s intellectual curiosities.

what is your plan in life essay

My Spotify Playlist

Alyssa’s essay reflects on special memories through the creative lens of Spotify playlists. They use three examples to highlight their experiences with their tennis team, finding a virtual community during the pandemic, and co-founding a nonprofit to help younger students learn about STEM.

More essays that worked

We share essays from previously admitted students—along with feedback from our admissions committee—so you can understand what made them effective and how to start crafting your own.

what is your plan in life essay

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My Life Plans: Setting Goals, Overcoming Obstacles

In this essay I am suppose to explain what the plans for my life are, how I plan on achieving them and the problems I might face. If you have a goal it gives you a clear focus on things. It also helps you to organize your plans by letting you set time limits and boundaries. I think if you plan on achieving things in life then you have to set goals. After high school there are many things I want to do and accomplish in my life. My goals probably aren’t different from most kids, but it will take a lot of hard work to get where I want to be.

I have many goals, but to accomplish these goals I will probably have many things that could get in the way. The reason I need to set goals is to make sure that I don’t fall behind in life and not achieve my dreams. Last summer I was into some bad things that really messed up my life. Luckily, I was assigned to Youth Court to help me through this. Youth Court is helping teach me the importance of goals because of the way it is set up. I have a 6 month sentence. During this time I have to complete certain goals.

Writing this life plan is one goal, an apology letter due the 1st month, a shoplifting class the 2nd month, and a jail tour another month. I have jury duty the first Thursday of every month, I have to phone in weekly, I have to attend school regularly, stay out of trouble, obey my parents, obey 10:00 pm curfew, and complete 40 hours of community service by the end of the 6 month period. If all of this is not complete then I will not reach my goal of having my offense taken off my records.

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The way Youth Court is set up is to do a little each month until you can complete your goal. If I do the required stuff every month then by the time the 6 months is over I will have completed everything I needed to do in order in graduate from Youth Court and have my offense taken off my record. Even though I haven’t finished setting my goals, I already have some. Two of the most important are to be happy and successful, even if I haven’t started out so well. One goal I have is to get my drivers license, I have already finished my classroom training.

I have just taken my written test and I now I my permit. I will have my permit for 6 months before I can get my license. I still need to complete my drivers training class which I am already signed up for. This is an important goal for me because I will need a license to drive. This leads to a goal I am trying to achieve and that is finding a job. I am starting to look for an after school/weekend job to save money to buy a car and for gas money. Another goal I have is to graduate from high school in 2 ? years.

I have problems in school because I have learning disabilities, including ADHD. I am also in Special Education classes. I need to work hard every day so I can keep my grades up. I think the most important value that will make me successful is determination. In order to be successful in my life I have to stick with it. While you can be happy achieving something it can take a lot of effort. There can be many mistakes and setbacks, I already know about some of those. Another goal I have is to become an x-ray technician.

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Status.net

20 Smart Answers: “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

By Status.net Editorial Team on April 10, 2023 — 10 minutes to read

Why Do They Ask This Question?

When you’re asked “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?,” the interviewer wants to gain insight into your career aspirations, personal goals, and how you envision growing within the company or industry. This question also helps interviewers understand whether your long-term goals align with the opportunities that the company or job may provide.

Before you go into the interview, take some time to reflect on what you genuinely want to achieve in the next five years. Consider the following aspects:

  • Areas you wish to specialize in or skills you want to refine
  • Leadership opportunities you’d like to explore
  • Professional certifications or training programs you plan to complete
  • Any goals related to the company’s values or industry trends

Understanding your own goals will help you create a truthful and thoughtful response that showcases your ambition and commitment to personal growth. Moreover, demonstrating how you plan to utilize and develop the skills gained in this role will show the interviewer that you’re a good fit for the company.

It’s important to remember that your answer should be tailored to the specific position or industry you’re interviewing for. You want to show the interviewer that your long-term goals are a natural progression from the job you’re applying for. Feel free to express enthusiasm for the company, industry, or role, but avoid making unrealistic claims or commitments.

Tips for Structuring Your Answer

Being honest in your response means sharing your true career aspirations, while still trying to keep your goals realistic and attainable within the company. Your response might include the following aspects:

  • Specific job titles or roles you aspire to reach
  • Skills you plan to develop or improve
  • Any certifications, trainings, or educational goals you intend to achieve

Be Adaptable

Show flexibility in your answer by acknowledging that change is inevitable and that you’re willing to adapt to the company’s needs as well as your own professional growth. You can tell your interviewer that you’re open to new opportunities within the organization.

  • Highlight your ability to learn new skills and take on new challenges
  • Discuss how you can grow within the company and contribute to its success
  • Emphasize your willingness to embrace change and adapt as needed

Show Your Commitment

  • Express how you see your professional growth aligned with the company’s goals
  • Discuss the ways you intend to contribute meaningfully to the organization
  • Reiterate your excitement to be part of the company’s future

Addressing Uncertainty

It’s natural to feel uncertain about your future, especially when asked to predict where you will be in five years. However, using some strategies, you can form a thoughtful response that communicates your aspirations and adaptability.

Firstly, consider discussing your long-term goals in broad terms. Even if you’re unsure about the specifics, try to focus on the direction you’d like your career to move. For example, mention professional growth opportunities or attribute you’d like to develop. This approach demonstrates ambition without being too rigid.

Example: “In five years, I hope to have built on my skills and gained more responsibility within this company. I’m eager to learn from experienced team members and eventually take on leadership roles.”

Secondly, when you are not entirely sure about the exact positions or steps, you can emphasize a growth mindset. Talk about continuously improving and adapting to changing situations, which would show that you’re flexible and resilient.

  • Constant learning
  • Embrace challenges
  • Adapt to change

Example: “I’m committed to continually expanding my knowledge and improving, which is why I’m enthusiastic about your company’s focus on innovation. Wherever I see myself in five years, I’ll be ready to adapt and grow.”

If future possibilities are vague, mention that you’re open to exploring various paths or contributing to different projects. Clarify that you’re excited to work with the company and discover opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Example: “I’m excited about the wide range of projects your company is involved in. While I may not know the precise role I’ll fill in five years, I’m eager to contribute to a company like yours and find my unique path.”

Setting Realistic Goals

When crafting your answer to the oft-dreaded question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, it’s crucial to set realistic goals. Establishing achievable objectives demonstrates not only your ambition but also your clarity about what it takes to advance your career and thrive in the company.

One way to set realistic goals is to consider the job role and how it aligns with your long-term aspirations. Analyze the job description and requirements, and think about how they fit with your personal growth plans. Start by identifying the necessary steps to progress in the company or your field, and incorporate them into your answer. Here are some tips to help you:

  • Reflect on the skills or experience you need to acquire in the next five years. For example, perhaps you’ll need to complete a specific certification or training to advance in your industry. Mention this in your response, acknowledging the importance of self-development and continuous learning.
  • Consider potential career paths within the company. Research and identify possible roles you might transition into, ensuring your answer aligns with the organization’s structure and growth opportunities. This demonstrates a commitment to the company and its future.
  • Think about your personal life and how it may impact your career trajectory. It’s essential to recognize that your personal circumstances could play a role in determining your career path over the next five years. By balancing work and personal life, you can set realistic expectations for yourself and your employer.

As you formulate your response, keep in mind that it’s perfectly normal to not have an exact plan for the next five years. However, it’s crucial to demonstrate a strong work ethic, flexibility, and willingness to learn and grow within your role and the company.

Aligning with Company Vision

It’s also useful to consider the company’s vision and values. Doing so shows interviewers that you have done your research and genuinely care about the potential role you might play in the organization’s future.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with the company’s mission statement and objectives. Visit their website, read up on any press releases, and research the history and recent accomplishments. This information will give you a solid foundation to align your long-term career goals with the organization’s vision.

Next, reflect on your personal values and career aspirations to find a meaningful connection with the company’s ethos. Use your research to identify opportunities for growth within the organization and emphasize how your contribution can serve as a catalyst for furthering their mission.

  • Review the job description thoroughly and understand the key responsibilities and required skills.
  • Reflect on your unique strengths and how they can contribute to the role and the company’s success.
  • Think about possible career milestones within the role and how they align with your long-term goals.
  • Consider the company’s projects or initiatives you would like to be involved in or lead, helping the organization grow and evolve in the future.
  • Prepare to communicate these points with confidence and enthusiasm during the interview.

An example of a well-aligned response could be:

“In five years, I see myself holding a leadership role within your company’s marketing department, where I can contribute to the development and execution of successful marketing strategies. I’m especially excited about the potential opportunity to work on your company’s sustainability initiatives, as I believe strongly in environmentally-conscious business practices.”

Focusing on Skills and Growth

When answering the question “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, focusing on skills and growth is an excellent approach. This shows employers that you’re dedicated to improving yourself professionally and highlights your commitment to the role you’re applying for.

Improving Current Skillset

Identify the key skills relevant to the job you’re seeking, and consider how you can enhance these skills over time: this can include further training, mentorship, or hands-on experience.

For example, you might say something like:

“In the next five years, I plan to hone my expertise in project management. I would like to collaborate on more complex projects and learn from experienced professionals in the field. I also plan to pursue a certification in Agile methodologies to streamline processes and deliver higher-quality results.”

This answer demonstrates your ambition, as well as a desire to contribute positively to the organization.

Acquiring New Skills

Besides improving your current skillset, it’s important to consider acquiring new skills. Employers appreciate candidates who are adaptable and committed to their professional development. Think about which additional skills could help you be more effective in your role or support the company’s goals.

“I am eager to learn more about data analysis tools like SQL and Python to inform and optimize our marketing strategies. I believe this will allow me to contribute more effectively to data-driven decision-making within the team and help the company achieve its larger objectives.”

“In the next five years, I plan to become an expert in Python programming and machine learning. I’m committed to taking courses and attending workshops to expand my skillset, which I believe will be an asset to your company’s tech team.”

“My goal is to develop my skills and expertise in this field, and in five years, I hope to have become an expert in my area of work and be recognized as a thought leader in the industry.”

Leadership-Focused Examples

Discussing your aspirations for a leadership role demonstrates your interest in taking on responsibility and driving teams to succeed. Emphasize your ability to guide others and create a positive work environment:

“As someone with a passion for teamwork and collaboration, I see myself in a leadership position in the next five years. I’m eager to mentor junior colleagues and help foster their professional growth, while also contributing to the overall success of the company.”

“In five years, I see myself as a senior member of this organization, having taken on more leadership responsibilities and contributing to the growth of the company.”

Career-Focused Examples

“In five years, I see myself in a mid-level management position within the marketing department. I plan on using the next few years to further develop my skills in marketing strategy and data analysis, and I truly believe this company is the perfect place to grow and achieve those goals.”

“I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in this role, and in five years, I hope to have taken on new challenges and responsibilities within the company.”

“I am passionate about making a positive impact in the world, and in five years, I see myself working on projects that have a tangible impact on people’s lives and the environment.”

“In five years, I hope to have built strong relationships with my colleagues and clients, and have a reputation for being a reliable and trustworthy partner in business.”

“I am committed to continuous learning and personal growth, and in five years, I hope to have completed additional training and certifications that will help me progress in my career.”

“I am excited about the potential for innovation and new technologies in this field, and in five years, I hope to have contributed to the development of new products or services that can benefit our customers.”

“In five years, I see myself in a leadership role within the company, mentoring and coaching others to help them achieve their full potential.”

“In five years, I hope to have made a significant impact in this company and have grown both professionally and personally. I see myself taking on more responsibility and leadership roles, while continuing to develop my skills and expertise in my field. Ultimately, I would like to be seen as a valuable asset to the company and contribute to its continued success.”

“In five years, I see myself having made a meaningful impact in this industry and having established myself as a thought leader and expert in my field. I am someone who is constantly looking for ways to innovate and improve, and I hope to have brought new ideas and approaches to the table that have helped move the industry forward. I also hope to have built a strong network of contacts and collaborators who share my passion for this work.”

“In five years, I see myself having built a successful and fulfilling career in this industry, while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I believe that it’s important to have a sense of purpose and meaning in one’s work, but also to prioritize personal relationships and hobbies outside of work. I hope to have found that balance and to be living a life that feels both rewarding and fulfilling.”

Your answer doesn’t need to be set in stone or overly specific; instead, focus on showcasing your skills, growth potential, and flexibility in the ever-evolving professional landscape.

To summarize:

  • Align your goals with the company’s objectives
  • Emphasize your desire for growth and development

Crafting the perfect response takes time, so give yourself an opportunity to reflect and practice before your interview.

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Interview questions answered: What are your future plans?

‘If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans’. Woody Allen was right, as the history has proven countless times. We can plan and dream and hope, yet we never have things completely under our control . A pandemic starts, or we get sick, or something positive happens–such as falling in love with a stranger, and suddenly we have to change our plans, or want to change them.

But what does it mean for your job interview? Should you philosophize about uncertainty of life , or should you come up with a precise and concrete answer , explaining what you want do in six month, three years, and ten years from now? You can actually succeed with both approaches to the question , as long as you explain your reasoning. As a rule of a thumb, however, you should try to connect your future plans with their company. This can mean internal promotion , but also having the same job for a foreseeable future, when there are no obvious career growth opportunities.

Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to this interesting interview question. I tried to include in my selection answers for a variety of situations and jobs, including jobs nobody wants to have for longer than six months, as well as a couple of unconventional answers (philosophizing about vanity of planning in the uncertain world we live in), and also one answer that focuses primarily on goals and plans outside of work, and one answer for students (applying for a place in a study program instead of for a job). Go through them, think for a few seconds about each one, and pick one that resonates with you, and with the message you try to convey to the hiring managers.

7 sample answers to “What are your future plans?” interview question

  • To be honest, I do not have any big plans . I would enjoy working as a receptionist in a nice hotel with a great management, just like this one. My future plans are having a job I enjoy doing , finding good life-work balance, foster good relationships both at work and in my personal life, and simply enjoy every day as it comes and goes. Of course, I plan to continue working on my language skills , because I want to become better in my work. But when it comes to the job, I do not dream of changing my career, or of anything similar.
  • My future plans can be summed up in one sentence: to make a great career in this international corporation . Of course, I have some positions on my mind. A finance manager, later perhaps an FP&A director. As you can see I dare do dream big . At the same time, however, I realize I have to start here as an entry level financial analyst , learn the ins and outs of the job, prove my skills and dedication to work, and just then I can think of promotion and better jobs.
  • My future plans are yet to be decided . I am still young, and trying to find my calling . It is one of the reasons why I apply for a job with your company –because it is very big, you have many departments, offices overseas, and I feel that options are almost endless here, of course as long as you try hard and do not mind sacrificing something for your job . What exactly I will do, however, and where I will end up living, I cannot tell now. But I am excited about the future , and without a doubt I will come up with some tangible plans down the road.
  • Speaking honestly, I prefer to live in a present moment . Plans? God, I had many. You would not believe if I told you. But sometimes I wasn’t ready to pursue them , other times destiny stepped into my way . I learned the hard way that regardless of how hard we try, we never have things fully under our control. And it doesn’t matter whether we talk about personal life, or professional career. Future plans? They only bring me anxiety . Hence for the last few years I prefer living in the moment, focusing on the task at hand, and going with the flow . At the moment I try to get a job with your retail store . With my year of birth, however, no interview is easy anymore. I did what I could to prepare for this meeting. If I get the job, I will do my best every day, and let’s see what’s next. Living in the present is liberating .
  • I plan to start a family in five years time . It is my biggest dream as a woman–to have kids, and to be a good mother. Of course, we never know what the future will bring , and you need two people for starting a family. But this is my plan for the future, and I will try my best to pursue it. Speaking about my professional career , I’d be happy to work as a secretary until then, and then return back after maternity leave… Is there anything else you’d like to know about my future goals and plans?
  • I do not have any future plans . Had some in the past, things haven’t worked out, and I only ended up disappointed. In my opinion, when we fixate on something in the future –some object of our desire, be it another person, a job, or a nice thing we want to buy, such as a new house, our job and daily life becomes just a means to an end . We go to work and around our daily business just to achieve X and Y in the future. And that’s a recipe to depression and unhappiness. Why should we rob ourselves of the most precious thing we have–the present moment? I also learned that when we take care of the present, the future will take care of itself . What I try to convey here is that if I focus 100% on the task at hand, and do it well, and then repeat it again and again, there’s no doubt I will progress in my career . And that’s exactly what I try to do, and my way of living.
  • My future plan is to become a great nurse . It is something I have been dreaming of for years. Now I am just applying for a place at a nursing school, and I know I have a long road ahead of me. But I see the meaningful purpose in this job , know what I want to achieve in life, and I hope it will drive me forward in my studies, and help me overcome the challenges I will undoubtedly face while trying to earn my degree.

Show some excitement for the future, or for the present

Regardless of whether you opt for conventional approach, or philosophize about the vanity of planing in the 21st century, they should hear some excitement in your voice . And it doesn’t matter what job you are applying for, and how far it is from your “dream career”.

Of course, the main reason why we go to work is the need to earn money to live . That’s how it works in life, and it likely won’t be any otherwise in the future. If you want to avoid sleeping on the street , you have to create some value for others (in your job, or in your business)–unless you were born in a golden cage, but you probably wouldn’t be reading this article in such a case…

The point I try to convey here is that employers do not want to hire pessimistic and bitter employees , who do not see anything positive about their future. Show some excitement for what’s ahead , your job with them, good things awaiting you in your life outside of work, and so on.

what is your plan in life essay

Make sure to have realistic future plans

Anything is possible and we can dream big, but you should try to keep it realistic in your interviews . For sure you can become a CEO of Tesla or General Electric one day. But it perhaps isn’t the best idea talking about such plans while you apply for an entry level role in these companies, or for a kitchen helper job at McDonald’s. It is just too farfetched.

Think about a position you can realistically have in a year, three years, five years, ideally within their organization, and focus on it while narrating your future plans. And if you are not sure, you can always opt for answer no. 4 or no. 6 on my list, focusing on present, and explaining why you prefer to do so .

Ready to answer this question? I hope so! Do not forget to check also sample answers to other tricky interview questions:

  • How do you handle success?
  • What is your greatest fear?
  • Why should we hire you, and not one of the other applicants for the job?
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what is your plan in life essay

20 Life Goals to Set for Yourself in 2024

There’s a lot of pressure around setting and achieving goals these days.

From big life goals down to small daily goals.  

This is especially true in the business world, where “ hustle and grind” culture makes us feel like there’s always something we need to be doing right now.  

But here’s a secret to setting life goals: you have to be true to yourself and what you really want out of life. Once you’ve tapped into what you want – and not what you think you should want – it all falls into place.  

So, how do you set good life goals and create a game plan to make them happen? What if you feel like you don’t have goals in life, or you don’t know the right direction to get there?  

That’s just what we’re getting into today.

In this article, we’ll look at what life goals are and how to set them. We’ll also give you a life goals list to help with your brainstorming, planning, and doing.  

What Are Life Goals?

Like the name suggests, life goals are goals to set for yourself over the course of your life. They’re definitely long-term – as they might actually take your whole life to achieve.

  I’m not going to sugar coat it: setting life goals is a lot easier than the achieving part.

  Which is why it’s so important that you’re driven by a sense of passion and real desire. Feeling strongly toward your life goals is what gives you the fuel to take those steps every day.

life goals

How to Set Life Goals

Finding goals in life might seem like an intimidating task. Some might even say overwhelming.

There’s no shame in that. There are a lot of people who feel the same way (myself included at times!).

It all starts with some brainstorming. And a touch of dreaming and fantasizing.  

Here are a few steps you can take to come up with the best life goals for yourself:

  • Set up an idea dump worksheet. Sit down with your computer or a pen and paper. Write out a few categories that you might want to set life goals for, like your health, relationships, career, finances, hobbies, spirituality, and the like.
  • Do an idea dump. Put 30 minutes on a timer and write down as many life goal ideas as you can think of in the categories you listed. No idea is too big, small, or silly. Write down every single one now, and you can edit them later.
  • Narrow down the best ideas. Wait a day or two, then revisit your life goals list. Which ones do you want the most? Which ones set you on fire when you think about them, even if they’ll be hard to accomplish? Those are your best bet.
  • Build an action plan. Write out a rough plan for the steps you need to take to achieve those life goals. How long will it reasonably take? What are the major milestones or baby steps you need to take to reach the bigger goal? What do you have to do every week, month, year to stay on track?  

Now let’s look at some life goal ideas to help give you some fuel for your brainstorming session.

21 Goals to Set for Yourself

1.  run a half marathon.

I’ve met at least a few people who have this as a life goal. This is a great example of a life goal that takes real dedication, especially if you’re not a runner yet.

That’s because a half marathon is about 21 kilometers (13.1 miles). That’s a whole lotta miles. Training is something that needs to happen steadily, every day or several times a week. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart. But the reward is as hefty as the commitment.

exercise goals

2.  Follow a vegan diet

“Going vegan” has gained a lot of traction lately. With reason: there are loads of benefits, like your health, the wellbeing of animals, and the environment. But this isn’t one of those simple life goals… if you love eating animal products like meat, cheese, and eggs, going vegan can feel incredibly hard.

A lot of people remedy this by taking it slow: first by cutting out some products, then cutting out others once you’re acclimated. If you look at it that way , a vegan diet can seem a lot more attainable.

3.  Start a business

Some people are fortunate enough to have a business opportunity knock on their door. Others have to work hard for it. But the good news is, starting a business is easier than ever. It’s also one of the best life goals you can set for yourself!  

If you’ve been dreaming of being your own boss, check out our article on How to Start a Business or our ebook on How to Become an Entrepreneur . Make sure you browse our site too. This is our bread and butter.

goal of owning a business

4.  Make a million dollars

This one seems like a really big dream, but a lot of entrepreneurs set this as a financial target. It’s an especially common life goal for people who own their own business, like a dropshipping store , consulting agency, or freelance business.  

When you make the rules about how your business runs, you can also make the rules about how money is made (and how much of it is made!).

5.  Earn a steady passive income

Do you fantasize about making money while you sleep? Or watching your bank account grow as you sip a mojito on a Caribbean beach? Passive income (also called residual income) is right up your alley.  

The best way to make this happen is to build an online business that doesn’t rely on you working 24/7. Selling online courses and other digital content can be a great path for this life goal.

passive income common goals in life

6.  Find (and marry) your “soulmate”

This is one of the most common goals in life. We all want a storybook romance, don’t we? While this isn’t necessarily the kind of goal that requires a strict plan, it’s something that can be worked toward.

After all, relationships take commitment and understanding. You’ll have to make compromises and grow together as a team. This is one of those life goals that takes more work than it seems.  

7.  Own your dream home

Your home isn’t just a set of four walls and a roof. Owning the perfect property is one of the best life goals you can set because it means you get your own little slice of heaven. Nothing feels more reassuring than having the perfect place where you can feel comfortable and safe.

Saving for your dream home takes some time – but it’s one of the best aims in life. Not only do you get a place to call your own, but you get your foot on the property ladder too!  

8.  Own your dream car

Just like a home, your car is one of your most valuable possessions. Sure, it’s there for your grocery runs and getting you to and from work each day. However, a car is also freedom – a chance to take on the open road and discover amazing places.

Figure out what your dream car looks like and start putting a little cash towards those new wheels every day.

9. Have a positive impact on the world

The world is a different place because you’re part of it. There might be 8.03 billion people on this planet, but you’ve ever felt the glow of donating to charity or cherished the smile on a person’s face after a random act of kindness, you’ll know everyone counts.

Do your part to have a positive impact on the world in your own way. You can create a small non-profit organization, plant some trees, or just try to make someone smile every day.

how to be polite

9.  Conquer your fears

This is a tough one – but well worth the effort. Your ultimate goal in life should be to live without fear . Take the world as it comes and be prepared to deal with any eventuality. That starts with conquering your fears, one at a time.

Figure out which fears are holding you back right now and start to work on them. A little CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) and meditation could help with building your confidence here.

11. Master a second language

Mastering a second language is one of the most common goals in life. It gives you a new valuable skill that you can share with the people around you. Plus, having another language that you can speak means that you have more job and travel opportunities.

Choose the language you’d like to speak based on the opportunities it offers. If you’ve always wanted to visit China, maybe Chinese is the language for you.

12. Declutter your home

A cluttered home creates a cluttered mind. It’s easy to let clutter get on top of us these days. We shove things in cupboards and boxes to keep our homes tidy – but the clutter is still there, waiting to spill out.

Learn how to let go of the things you don’t want or need in your life anymore. If you haven’t used something in the last three months, and it doesn’t make you happy, donate it or throw it away.  

13. Rekindle an old relationship

Some relationships are better left in the past. You know which people have had a negative impact on your life. Some, however, could deliver a host of amazing benefits.  

Look through your past relationships and ask yourself who you lost touch with for no real reason. Reach out through a message or phone call and think whether re-igniting this relationship is important for you.

rekindle old relationships

14. Sleep better

Sleep has a massive impact on how you think and feel. When it comes to short term goals in life, improving your sleep is one of the most valuable things you can do.

Start by improving your sleep hygiene. Create a schedule you can stick to, starting with a way to relax, like a hot bath or a cup of tea.

Remember that your bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet to support good sleep. Keep any electronics outside if you can.

15. Plan for your child’s future

Your child is a continuation of yourself. While you can’t control what kind of person they become, one of the most positive goals in life is to try and help them reach their potential. Plan your child’s future by putting money away for their future education and helping them to find their talents.

Setting life goals doesn’t have to be just about doing things that benefit you. Your life goals can also center around your child’s happiness.  

16. Mentor someone

We all have unique skills and talents that we can share with the world. If you know how to do something well, whether it’s managing stress , or making money online , then you can share that knowledge with other people.

Mentoring someone is a wonderful way to pass your insights down through generations. Additionally, when you mentor someone, you also find opportunities to learn yourself. No matter where you are in life, you can usually find someone that looks up to you.

17. Become more mindful

Good life goals focus on helping you get the most out of your time on this earth. Living a fulfilling life means learning how to live in the present.

It’s easy to over-analyze our mistakes and stay focusing exclusively on the past. However, if you focus on what you regret too often, you forget to live in the present. Similarly, anxiously awaiting the future means that you don’t see the value in what you have now.  

Learn how to be mindful of your existing life. Here are some mind training tactics to help your brain focus intently.

life goals examples mindfulness

18. Do different things

One of the best goals to set in life is to expose yourself to as many different experiences as possible. As easy as it is to cling to your comfort zone, you should always be looking for ways to branch out and discover new experiences. Doing something new is a chance to discover the skills and talents that you never knew you had. It’s also a way to build relationships with new peoples you might meet and discover hobbies that make you happier.

19. Take more risks

Risks are something we often work hard to avoid, but sometimes they’re necessary. One of your life goals should be to look at ways to take more calculated risks in your life.

Think about something that could have a great impact on your life, but you’re currently too nervous to try. Could the benefits outweigh the risk? If so, this is the time to bite the bullet and jump in.   

20. Let go of the past

Finding goals in life can be easier than you’d think. Sometimes, the best way to improve your future is to learn how to let go of the past. While you can learn from the negative experiences you’ve had over the years, stop letting them hold you back.

Depending on your background, you may need some help to accomplish this goal. However, therapy and guidance exist to give you the direction you need.

21. Learn more

Learning doesn’t have to stop because you’ve finished your schooling. A commitment to long-term learning is one of the most effective and simple life goals for anyone interested in living a fulfilling life.

Try taking a new course every so often on the internet or at a local school near you. Look for opportunities to learn from other people or seek a mentor who can help you hone specific skills.

always be learning

Let's Do This!

Setting life goals is a great way to ensure that you get the most out of your fleeting time on this wonderful planet.

Life moves quickly, and it’s easy to waste time when you don’t have a direction to move in. Short-term and long-term life goals will act as the compass you need to guide you towards happiness, enlightenment, and fulfillment in everything you do.

What kind of goals are you going to set? Let us know in the comments below.

Want to Learn More?

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What are the fees associated with using wealth plan.

Wealth Plan is free for Chase customers.

Will Wealth Plan provide financial guidance or investment recommendations?

No, Wealth Plan does not provide specific investment guidance or recommendations. Schedule time to speak with a J.P. Morgan Advisor for personalized guidance.

What is Wealth Plan?

Wealth Plan is a new digital money coach with a suite of tools that allows all Chase customers to 1) get a full picture of their financial situation at Chase and other financial institutions 2) prioritize and track their financial goals, with the ability to establish a relationship with a J.P Morgan Advisor and 3) get insights on their financial situation and goals.

Where can I find Wealth Plan?

Wealth Plan is available on the “Plan & track” tab in the Chase Mobile ® app and Chase.com.

What are the key features of Wealth Plan?

Wealth Plan offers a suite of tools for Chase customers including linking external accounts for a full picture of their finances, spending summary, net worth, net income and spend, financial goals, budget and the ability to connect with a J.P. Morgan Advisor.

Who can I speak with to learn more about Wealth Plan?

You can schedule a meeting with a J.P. Morgan Advisor directly in the Chase Mobile ® app or visit your local Chase branch.

How do I add my external accounts to Wealth Plan?

You can link your non-Chase bank accounts manually or automatically in Wealth Plan. Simply click on "Link external accounts" on the “Plan & track” tab, search for your financial institution and log in using your credentials or click the "Manually link an account" to add the balance of your non-Chase account without logging in.

Do I need to have an advisor to access Wealth Plan?

No, Wealth Plan is available to all Chase customers with or without a J.P. Morgan Advisor relationship.

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Your life on an installment plan: 'Buy now, pay later' features creep into more credit tools

Photo Illustration: Common purchases sliced up into many pieces with individual price tags

Why pay all at once?

It’s a question consumers are getting asked more often at checkouts, as installment plans resembling those offered by “buy now, pay later” services pop up in more places.

Popular BNPL offerings like Afterpay, Affirm, Sezzle, Klarna and others — which let borrowers break up a purchase into several equal installments with little or no interest — exploded during the pandemic, fueled by lockdown-era e-commerce, stimulus checks and savings. Adoption of the installment loans has cooled since then, but their influence over how consumers spend with borrowed money is just getting started.

It was exactly what I needed to do some fun stuff and not go into debt. Or at least not feel like I’m going into debt.

Aaron Gans, 37, New York City

Aaron Gans, a 37-year-old resident physician in New York City, got a notification in March from his American Express Platinum card offering to split his and his husband’s $1,700 charge for their flights to Taiwan and South Korea into 12 interest-free installments. He said yes.

“It was exactly what I needed to do some fun stuff and not go into debt,” said Gans. “Or at least not feel like I’m going into debt.”

In an era of stubborn inflation and stretched household finances, as well as high interest rates stoking fears of credit card debt , lenders are leaning into a model that many shoppers — especially younger ones — are embracing as a way to keep spending . That BNPL-ification of consumer credit is underscoring existing socioeconomic divides, with people of different means paying off debt in installments for different reasons.

Big brands bring installment plans in-house

American Express began rolling out more features like the one Gans recently took advantage of several years ago, just as BNPL startups surged in popularity. Amex made its “Plan It” program available for travel bookings in 2021 — the same year Mastercard and Barclays unveiled their own BNPL programs — and expanded that and related offerings to more of its cards last summer.

“All your major card issuers are going to be watching the success” of BNPL services, said Ben Danner, senior analyst at Javelin, a payments-focused research firm. “They wanted some of that market share.”

Retailers have been getting in on the action, too. In April, a Walmart-backed startup began offering BNPL loans for big-ticket items at thousands of stores, effectively adding an in-house option to compete with Affirm, the retailer’s exclusive BNPL provider since 2019.

Others are finding ways to offer customers installment features without additional transaction fees. Last year, Amazon partnered with Citi to let cardholders use the brand’s Flex Pay option with any merchant using Amazon Pay.

But moves like these coincide with a slowdown in BNPL usage overall.

By March, growth in the share of Bank of America customers with an active BNPL payment was lower than 12 months earlier, researchers at the bank said last month, and adoption was down nearly fourfold since March 2021. In a survey by The Motley Fool, an investing advice company, just 35% of adults said last year that they’d used a BNPL loan at least once, down sharply from 50% in 2022 and 56% in 2021.

That’s not necessarily surprising, or unique to the BNPL market. When a new type of product sees an initial burst of popularity, intrigued customers tend to flood in all at once. As time goes on, some stick around and others drop off, while familiar habits reassert themselves and the pool of eager first-time users gets shallower.

But at least two other factors could be limiting BNPL services’ growth.

First, they’re used disproportionately by some of the riskiest borrowers — those with shaky credit and household finances — including for everyday purchases , not just the occasional large expense. That may not be helping providers win over skeptics who see them as enablers of dangerous overspending . And second, the spread of installment options across the tools already in many consumers’ wallets reduces the need to sign up for a new one.

Need to pay later vs. nice to be able to

According to a NerdWallet analysis last month, the use of BNPL loans is most common among young people and parents of small kids — groups where strained finances are comparatively widespread .

More than 1 in 3 parents of minor children have used a BNPL loan over the past year, the researchers found, versus just 1 in 5 for those without young kids. The Bank of America report found nearly half of BNPL borrowers made less than $50,000 annually. And Gen Z borrowers are leaning more heavily on credit overall than millennials did at the same age a decade ago, recent data from the credit agency TransUnion shows.

Many customers of stand-alone BNPL services use them like Benjamin Espinoza, a San Antonio-based video editor in his late 20s. He told NBC News earlier this year that he’d used Klarna to pay for an Instacart grocery order when cash was tight.

“It sucks that these are the avenues I have to go through,” said Espinoza, who estimated making less than $7,000 last year.

Consumers are generally most satisfied with the BNPL plans offered by their credit card issuers.

Miles Tullo, managing director of banking and payments, J.D. Power

By contrast, mainstream brands’ BNPL riffs are likely looking to pull in higher-income users, while hanging on to existing ones who might otherwise go elsewhere to try the approach. That could create a sorting effect, with cash-strapped borrowers relying more heavily on stand-alone apps like Klarna for essentials, and more affluent ones embracing the installment features offered by name-brand companies for occasional luxuries like travel.

“Consumers are generally most satisfied with the BNPL plans offered by their credit card issuers,” Miles Tullo, managing director of banking and payments at J.D. Power, said in a report earlier this year .

But the market remains fluid. “Experiences vary quite a bit by brand and some of the newest providers are receiving the greatest increases in satisfaction scores,” he said.

Customers ranked Amex’s Plan It the top BNPL offering, the J.D. Power survey found, followed by My Chase Plan and Citi Flex Pay — all services from mainstream credit cards that typically require higher creditworthiness for borrowers to qualify. Those plans also tend to have higher purchase minimums than stand-alone BNPL services; Plan It is only available for Amex purchases over $100, for example.

Plus, as Danner pointed out, “one big factor here is you’re still able to get your rewards” when using a card’s installment feature. While some BNPL providers, including Afterpay and Sezzle, have experimented with loyalty programs, those aren’t likely to be as attractive as the ones offered by a huge Wall Street bank, Danner said.

Another upside to sticking with a credit card’s installment options: Cardholders can often use these features to circumvent interest charges. Rather than “rolling a bunch of debt into the next month at a 30% interest rate,” Danner said, “you can leverage some of these installment plans to kind of lower that total cost.”

When Gans paid for his travel on Amex, he noticed “they just sort of package it for you.” In fact, he said, there was a no-fee promotion when he first used Plan It. The service typically charges a fixed monthly rate of up to 1.33%.

Not everyone is racing to try out installment financing. Older borrowers, for example, appear to be sticking with what they know. Credit usage data that LexisNexis Risk Solutions analyzed for NBC News shows retail store cards — whose users have long skewed older — are becoming more popular among mature consumers. In 2019, borrowers ages 60 and up comprised 20% of all retail card applicants. Last year, that share hit 25%.

Experts foresee more experimentation among lenders as the U.S. consumer population ages and as high living costs continue to squeeze many households.

“These factors collectively contribute to a rise in credit demand,” said Kevin King, vice president of credit risk and marketing strategy at LexisNexis Risk Solutions. “There’s a lot of smart people at those companies who are thinking about how to evolve their products and their businesses.”

what is your plan in life essay

J.J. McCorvey is a business and economy reporter for NBC News.

Explore how Microsoft's partnership with Khan Academy is enhancing the future of education with AI innovation and tools for teachers >

  • AI in education
  • Published Jan 23, 2024

Meet your AI assistant for education: Microsoft Copilot

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  • Content Type
  • Microsoft Copilot

With new advancements in AI happening faster than ever before, you might be wondering how you can use these tools in your classroom to save you time and energy. Educators worldwide are making strides to understand and integrate AI into their work and often find it to be a valuable tool. You can use AI to save time creating rubrics, personalized content for students, and educational materials such as quizzes and lesson plans.   

Generative AI is a newer piece of technology and a unique category of AI that focuses on creating new content. With generative AI you can generate new content like text, images, code, or audio. It achieves this by learning patterns from existing data and understanding the context and intent of language. This provides you with new opportunities for content creation, personalization, and innovation. Because this technology is creating new content, checking for accuracy in generative AI is essential—especially in the field of education.  

Microsoft Copilot is a tool that uses generative AI to serve as a helpful assistant to you in the classroom. Copilot can help you save time, differentiate instruction, and enhance student learning. With Copilot, you can easily create lesson plans, quizzes, rubrics, and other class resources for any level of learner.  

5 ways to use Copilot in education 

Here are just a few examples of the many ways you can use Microsoft Copilot to save time and energy: 

  • Personalized learning: Copilot can support personalized learning by helping you create content, tailored feedback, and guidance for students based on their individual needs and learning styles. 
  • Brainstorming: You can use Copilot to brainstorm new ideas for activities, lesson plans, supporting materials, and assignments.  
  • Lesson planning: Copilot can help you plan lessons by suggesting or drafting activities, resources, and assessments that align with learning objectives. You can also use Copilot to start a rubric for the lessons. 
  • Provide feedback: Copilot can help you draft initial feedback and ideas for students on their work, which you can edit and personalize for your students.  
  • Get quick answers: Copilot can help you get quick answers to your questions without having to read through multiple search results. Also, Copilot provides links to content sources so you can assess the source or dive deeper into the original content. 

Copilot homepage

Microsoft Copilot showing suggested prompts for educators. Copilot uses generative AI to serve as a helpful assistant to you in the classroom. 

Getting started with Microsoft Copilot

To get started with Microsoft Copilot, you can follow these steps:  

  • Open copilot.microsoft.com or select the Copilot icon on the sidebar in your Microsoft Edge browser. 
  • Type your prompt into the chat window. 
  • Review the sources linked at the bottom by “Learn more.” You can fact-check the information provided or dive deeper into a topic by accessing the original articles, studies, or reports. 
  • Review the response to make sure the output is what you want and accurate. You are the expert, and you decide what goes into the classroom. 
  • To get the most out of Copilot, you can keep the conversation going by following up on your prompts. This helps you collaborate with Copilot to gain more useful, tailored responses.   

You can also give feedback to Copilot based on the quality of its responses to help the AI learn and match your preferences.  

How to write a prompt for AI 

To effectively guide generative AI, you want to give it clear and concise instructions, known as prompts. A well-crafted prompt enhances the generative AI’s output in the quality, relevance, and diversity. A good prompt should be clear, specific, and aligned with the goal of the generation task. A bad prompt can lead to ambiguous, irrelevant, or biased output. To get the best response from Copilot, consider the following tips:  

  • Define clear objectives.  Determine the main goal of the prompt and the role AI should take. Whether creating a syllabus, drafting a quiz, or revising lesson content, have a clear vision of the end goal. 
  • Be specific.  Chat experiences operate best when given detailed instructions. Specify grade level, subject, topic, or any other relevant parameters. For instance, “secondary math quiz on algebraic expressions” is clearer than “math quiz.” 
  • Structure the prompt.  Break complex tasks into smaller parts. Instead of asking the AI to draft an entire lesson, request an outline, then delve into specific sections. 
  • Iterate and refine.  The first response from AI might not always align perfectly with expectations. Don’t hesitate to rephrase the prompt, ask follow-up questions, or provide more context based on the initial output. 
  • Combine expertise.  Use AI as a tool to enhance and streamline work but remember to overlay its suggestions with your educational expertise. AI can suggest content, but the educator decides the best way to edit and present it to their audience.   

An infographic that explains how to craft effective prompts for AI tools and provides five key elements: conversation style, specific instructions, tailor for audience, specify length, specify format.

A infographic about how to write AI prompts to get better answers from Copilot. A good prompt should be clear, specific, and aligned with the goal of the task. 

Want a fun way to practice creating effective prompts? Minecraft Education just announced Prompt Lab for Minecraft Educators , a free playbook on how to use Microsoft Copilot to write compelling prompts, develop interactive learning content and assessments, and generate creative ideas for Minecraft lesson plans.   

Create images from text with Copilot 

You can use Image Creator from Designer in Copilot to create personalized, engaging visuals for all sorts of lessons or topics. You can type in a description of an image, provide additional context like location or activity, and choose an art style. Image Creator generates an image straight from your imagination. Prompts can begin with “draw an image” or “create an image.” You can use this tool to create images for a class newsletter, lesson, or Teams post.   

  • Get started in Copilot prompting “create an image…”  
  • Then build out your prompt with adjective + noun + verb + style.  
  • Click on your favorite image to open the result in a new tab and save the image. 

 An example would be “Create an image of an adorable black puppy wearing a hat in photorealistic style.” 

A Microsoft Copilot chat displaying four generated images of a black puppy wearing a hat in photorealistic style, with options to ask anything or continue the conversation.

An example of Copilot creating an image of a black dog wearing a hat in a photorealistic style, based on text descriptions. 

Try creating an image in Copilot for your lesson, or just for fun!   

Protected AI-powered chat

At Microsoft, our efforts are guided by our AI principles and Responsible AI Standard and build on decades of research on grounding and privacy-preserving machine learning. Copilot provides commercial data protection and delivers a secure AI-powered chat service for educational institutions. This means user and organizational data are protected, chat prompts and responses in Copilot are not saved, Microsoft has no eyes-on access to them, and they aren’t used to train the underlying large language models. Additionally, our  Customer Copyright Commitment  means education customers can be confident using our services and the output they generate without worrying about copyright claims.  

Get to know your Copilot 

Dive deeper into the world of generative AI and unlock its full potential for your classroom.  

  • The new  AI for Educators Learning Path  on  Microsoft Learn is made up of three modules to help educators learn about and benefit from AI. 
  • Prompt Lab for Minecraft Educators demonstrates how to use Microsoft Copilot with Minecraft Education to design engaging learning experiences. Level up your Minecraft teaching with this useful new resource! 
  • AI classroom toolkit provides instructional information for educators and students to use generative AI safely and responsibly. 
  • AI for education on  Microsoft Learn is a collection of resources and courses on how to use AI for educational purposes.  

Ready to elevate your teaching with Microsoft Copilot? Start using Copilot today! copilot.microsoft.com  

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A simple guide to high-deductible health plans

Wondering if a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) is right for you? We’re here to answer your questions and help make your health care journey a little easier.

What is an HDHP, and how does it work?

An HDHP has a higher deductible than a typical health plan. That simply means you pay out of pocket for your medical expenses until you reach a certain amount. Then, your plan begins to pay.

Savings tip: HDHPs have lower premiums. That means you pay less every month for your plan. Plus, you’re covered for many preventive services and screenings at no cost without having to meet your deductible.


When the plan year begins, you pay the full cost of your care until you reach a fixed dollar amount. (This is your deductible.)


After you meet your deductible, you pay a smaller portion of your medical costs. (This is your coinsurance.) Your plan pays the rest.


Once you meet your out-of-pocket maximum (this is your deductible plus coinsurance limit), your plan pays for all covered medical services in full.


When the plan year begins, you pay the full cost of your care until you reach a fixed dollar amount. (This is your deductible.)


After you meet your deductible, you pay a smaller portion of your medical costs. (This is your coinsurance.) Your plan pays the rest.


Once you meet your out-of-pocket maximum (this is your deductible plus coinsurance limit), your plan pays for all covered medical services in full.

Everyone’s health needs are different

We’ll help you decide if an HDHP is right for you

Top 5 advantages of hdhps.

An HDHP may make sense for you if you’re rarely sick or injured but can afford the higher upfront costs if the unexpected happens. Benefits include:

Lower monthly premiums

You can have peace of mind knowing you’re paying less for monthly coverage.

Lower medical expenses

If you rarely need to see a doctor or use your benefits, you may spend less on your monthly insurance payment.

Quality care for less

Our plans include a broad network of providers. When you choose providers in our network, you get special discounts.

An account to help you save on health expenses

An HDHP is the only plan that can be paired with a  health savings account (HSA) . An HSA helps you save pre-tax money for health expenses like deductibles and coinsurance. Even prescriptions, dental care and eyewear.

Savings for the future

When you add money to your HSA, you lower your taxable income. Your earnings are tax free. And your HSA is always yours, even if you leave the plan.

Top things to consider about HDHPs

An HDHP may not make sense for everyone. You’ll want to consider your lifestyle and health needs. For instance, if you have young kids, get ongoing treatment for a condition or take several medications, your upfront costs may be higher. Here are other things to keep in mind:

These plans have higher deductibles.

That means you pay for doctor visits, tests and prescriptions until you meet your deductible, then and your plan begins to pay. If you have an individual plan, the minimum deductible is $1,500. If you have a family plan, the minimum deductible is $3,000.*

Medical emergencies can happen.

Even if you’re fairly healthy, health needs and emergencies can pop up. Are you prepared to pay your full deductible up front?

You may be tempted to put off important care.

Some people might skip a trip to their doctor or the ER because of the upfront cost. The good news is that a  health savings account can help you cover these costs.

Other plans may be available to you

Want to explore other coverage options? We’ll explain the differences between HMO, PPO, and POS plans to help you choose.

High deductible health plan FAQs

Think insurance is confusing? We’re here to help.

How can I get coverage or change my plan?

Most people change their plans during Open Enrollment. This is a period that happens once a year when you can sign up for insurance. You can also adjust or cancel your plan.

Have a big life change or one coming up? Certain events, like getting married or losing your coverage, qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period. That means you can enroll in a plan or change your plan outside Open Enrollment.

What does it mean when “it’s covered”?

If a service is covered, that means your health plan will pay for some or all the cost. With an HDHP, you’re covered for medical services after you meet your plan deductible.

Covered services include:

  • Doctor visits
  • Emergency care
  • Hospital stays
  • Prescription drugs and more

Does an HDHP cover preventive care?

HDHPs typically cover in-network preventive care in full without having to meet your deductible. This benefit can help you save. That’s because it can help prevent or find health issues before they become more costly.

Examples of preventive care include:

  • Blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol tests
  • Routine prenatal and well-child care
  • Flu shots and other routine vaccines
  • Cancer screenings, including mammograms and colonoscopies
  • Screening services for heart disease, infectious disease, mental health conditions, obstetric and gynecological conditions, and more

Note: Preventive care does not include services to treat an existing illness, injury, or condition.

Why is staying in network important?

Choosing network providers can save you money. And here’s why: The providers in our network have agreed to special, contracted rates. That makes it less costly for you.

Some plans include out-of-network coverage. Just keep in mind that providers who are not in our network are not contracted with us. And they may charge higher rates. Another thing to consider is that your out-of-network deductible is separate from your in-network deductible. So even if you’ve met your in-network deductible, you would still be responsible for the cost of any out-of-network care.

*FOR COST-SHARING DETAILS: This is a typical example. Keep in mind that cost-share varies by plan.

*FOR MINIMUM DEDUCTIBLE SOURCE: Internal Revenue Service (IRS). IRS tax forms and instructions . Accessed May 5, 2023.

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  • Please note also that Dental Clinical Policy Bulletins (DCPBs) are regularly updated and are therefore subject to change.
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  • Each benefit plan defines which services are covered, which are excluded, and which are subject to dollar caps or other limits. Members and their providers will need to consult the member's benefit plan to determine if there are any exclusions or other benefit limitations applicable to this service or supply. The conclusion that a particular service or supply is medically necessary does not constitute a representation or warranty that this service or supply is covered (i.e., will be paid for by Aetna) for a particular member. The member's benefit plan determines coverage. Some plans exclude coverage for services or supplies that Aetna considers medically necessary. If there is a discrepancy between a Clinical Policy Bulletin (CPB) and a member's plan of benefits, the benefits plan will govern.
  • In addition, coverage may be mandated by applicable legal requirements of a State, the Federal government or CMS for Medicare and Medicaid members. 

See CMS's Medicare Coverage Center

  • Please note also that Clinical Policy Bulletins (CPBs) are regularly updated and are therefore subject to change.
  • Since Clinical Policy Bulletins (CPBs) can be highly technical and are designed to be used by our professional staff in making clinical determinations in connection with coverage decisions, members should review these Bulletins with their providers so they may fully understand our policies. Under certain circumstances, your physician may request a peer to peer review if they have a question or wish to discuss a medical necessity precertification determination made by our medical director in accordance with Aetna’s Clinical Policy Bulletin.
  • While Clinical Policy Bulletins (CPBs) define Aetna's clinical policy, medical necessity determinations in connection with coverage decisions are made on a case by case basis. In the event that a member disagrees with a coverage determination, Aetna provides its members with the right to appeal the decision. In addition, a member may have an opportunity for an independent external review of coverage denials based on medical necessity or regarding the experimental and investigational status when the service or supply in question for which the member is financially responsible is $500 or greater. However, applicable state mandates will take precedence with respect to fully insured plans and self-funded non-ERISA (e.g., government, school boards, church) plans.

See Aetna's External Review Program

  • The five character codes included in the Aetna Clinical Policy Bulletins (CPBs) are obtained from Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®), copyright 2015 by the American Medical Association (AMA). CPT is developed by the AMA as a listing of descriptive terms and five character identifying codes and modifiers for reporting medical services and procedures performed by physicians.
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LICENSE FOR USE OF CURRENT PROCEDURAL TERMINOLOGY, FOURTH EDITION ("CPT®")

CPT only copyright 2015 American Medical Association. All Rights Reserved. CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.

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IMAGES

  1. My Future Plans in Life Free Essay Example

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  2. 💄 What is your goal in life essay. What Is Your Life Goals Essay. 2022

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  4. Life Plan Essay Example (600 Words)

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  1. 10-Year Life Plan Essay

    Learn More. In ten years, I want to own an event company that can be the best in its field. I have always been fascinated with this idea. The following 10-year life plan essay will consist of three parts that can help me structure my future and achieve all my goals. I would like to organize great performances at different events every day.

  2. My Goal In Life Essay

    A goal is a desire you have to accomplish yourself. If one wants to succeed in life, one must have a goal. Being a teacher is my life's ambition. A wonderful and responsible profession is teaching. I have made the conscious decision to do all in my ability to promote knowledge among the people. Some people believe that money is life.

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  4. Essay About My Goals And Ways To Achieve Them

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  5. How to Write an Awesome Essay About Your Career Goals

    Paragraph 2: Elaborate on what inspired your career goals. Perhaps it was a relative, a TV show, or simply an experience that you had. Remember that old writing adage, "Show, don't tell.". In other words, try to demonstrate your interest with story or description. Paragraph 3: Discuss your short-term career goals and your intended major.

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    When you review your life plan, also assess the successes that you have achieve so far. It is good to keep track of your accomplishments. 3. Adjust your life plan. When you do find that your priorities and the goals associated with those priorities have changed, it's time to rewrite at least part of your life plan.

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    Setting goals can transform your life in ways you never thought possible. Goals are not mere abstract desires but the foundation upon which personal and professional development is built. Without clear goals, individuals may wander aimlessly, lacking direction and motivation. Goals act as guiding stars, shaping our actions, decisions, and ...

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    Setting life goals is an essential part of personal development and growth. By identifying and striving towards these objectives, individuals can find purpose and direction in their lives. In this essay, I will outline my avid 10 life goals and discuss the significance of each... Life Goals Future Plan. 4.

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    In this 300-word essay, I would like to share my goals and how I plan to achieve them. Firstly, my main goal is to excel in academics. Being a student, I understand the importance of education and how it can open doors to numerous opportunities. Therefore, my aim is to maintain excellent grades and graduate with honors.

  11. How To Write a Great Career Goals Essay

    1. Understand the concept of career goals. Before you write your career goals essay, you must first identify your career ambitions. Career goals are a form of personal development. Focus on the professional or educational goals you would like to achieve aside from a high salary. The qualities of your goals are a more accurate measure of success ...

  12. How to Write a Career Goals Essay (with Examples)

    This essay is an opportunity for you to allow your personality and experiences to shine, so avoid generic statements. The document should be personal and concisely describe your life experiences. You should explain why you have chosen this career path. If there was a pivotal moment in your life that led you to this application, be sure to ...

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    Step 1: Look at What's Not Working. When you're getting ready to make a life plan, you first need to figure out what you want—and that includes what you want to change. It can be challenging and overwhelming to even know where to start. So, that's where it will help to "take stock" of what your life is like right now and be honest about what ...

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    In 100 words, tell us about your career goals. 100-word essays, while short, can take careful planning and thought. With so little space to communicate your ideas, it's important to ensure you maximize the strength of every sentence. Scholarship teams might give you this prompt to assess your future goals quickly or to supplement some of the ...

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