The 5 Year Question

Do you know where you want to be in 5 years? We've all encounter this question plenty of times. You probably thought about it briefly and then went on about your day, oblivious to the actual power of this question. In order to achieve goals in life, each goal must first be clearly identified, and that is the true nature of this question. It is not enough to "want to make more money," or "want to be happy." Goals must be defined on a granular level, and only then can steps be taken to achieve them. Here an example:

Suppose your answer is to "become a homeowner," that's fine and dandy, but unless you elaborate, it's not likely to come true. Ask yourself a series of follow up questions, like which neighborhood do want to live in? How many bedrooms can you afford? how does you credit score compare to what is needed? If you start thinking about these little details, you have already subconsciously started house shopping, and achieving your goal. You may be years away from owning a home, but it's a start and you're closer than you were a few minutes ago. The next step is to take action towards your goal. Since, you've already made up your mind to buy a house, taking action is now justified. You have a reason to pay down your credit cards, to improve your credit score, to save money, to begin looking at homes in your desired area, and to immerse yourself in housing culture. Learning about real estate, and house hunting will help you stay on track. The hardest part of achieving any goal is simply taking the first step, but eventually you can be a home owner.

By really contemplating the answers to this question, it will create a spark of hope and direction to better your life. So take the time right now and decide where in life you want to be in 5 years. Do you want to complete a marathon, start a family, start a business, learn a language, travel Europe, get a degree, get out of Debt? Strive to accomplish your answer and don't take no for an answer.