Long-term goals (LTG) are goals that state the desired objective of the goal.
These goals are generalized statements of what we wish to achieve, for example, “I want to improve my health”. This states the goal I wish to achieve, however, it does not state how I will go about achieving it. Long-term goals are not time specific.
Short-term goals (STG) are goals that will support the long term goal. These goals are concise and are specific to the long-term goal we wish to achieve, for example, “I will walk three times a week for an hour each day”. This states what I will do, how often I will do the activity and for how long. Short-term goals are time specific and we may have several short-term goals that support our long-term goals.
When setting goals you may find it helpful to have your list of wants, needs, and dreams with you. It is important that as your skills and abilities improve so should your goals. The goals that you set for yourself should always provide some level of challenge for you.
You've worked hard and you deserve it!
Here are some examples of long-term goals (LTG) and short-term goals (STG) to help you along. Each long-term goal will have several short-term goals to support it and each goal will state the action to be taken. When we break our goals down into workable steps, they are achievable. Even the goals we think are too hard can be achieved. Little steps lead to big changes.
LTG – I want to improve my physical abilities
STG – I will go for a walk three times a week for an hour each day
STG – Within one week I will explore yoga classes
STG – Within two weeks I will sign up for a yoga class
STG – I will speak to my doctor at my next appointment to ensure that what I choose is safe for me to do.
LTG – I need to learn to control my pain
STG – Within 2 days I will research various relaxation techniques
STG – I will speak to my doctor at my next appointment to see if he can recommend techniques I can use
STG – I will practice my techniques every morning and before bed
STG – I will practice my techniques when I am feeling my pain gain control
When working on your physical goals it is important that you speak with your doctor to make sure what you are doing or planning to do, is safe and within your physical abilities. Increase your physical challenges as your abilities grow.
LTG – I want to improve my social interactions in my community
STG – I will join a committee at my co-op and participate in community events
STG – When I am out for a walk I will greet and say hello to everyone I see “Good Day”
STG – I will say hello to my neighbours when I see them outside.
Breaking down the walls of social interaction can be difficult at times. Our society moves so quickly and the art of face to face conversations have gone way of text messages and emails. This can help to keep us isolated instead. Break out of that shell, and start saying hello. You may be surprised how many smiles you see. Build your personal support system!
LTG – I want and need a job
STG – Within one week I will explore employment service agencies for resume assistance
STG – Within two weeks I will register with an employment agency
STG – Within two days of having my resume, I will explore internet job sites for employment opportunities and apply to those that I am qualified for.
STG – Within one week I will explore volunteer options to gain experience in my chosen field
When considering employment opportunities, it is important that you have realistic goals. If you find that while researching a job you lack the required skills, don't give up! Set a goal to achieve those skills so that the next time a similar opportunity comes, you will be ready.
LTG – I want and need to stop hurting myself
STG – I will speak with my doctor and share what I am experiencing at my next appointment
STG – When I feel my triggers starting, I will use my calming techniques
STG – When I feel my triggers starting, I will ask my support system for help
STG – Within one week I will call Family Services Thames Valley. I will attend counselling to help me talk about what I am feeling instead of hurting myself.
When you are addressing behaviours, please speak with your doctor to see if there is an underlying cause that may also need to be addressed. As we know, we often hurt ourselves because we are feeling anxious or depressed. Your doctor needs to be aware of these feelings and to what level you are experiencing them. If you are experiencing thoughts that are intrusive and consume you, it is important that you share this also. Please be kind and gentle with yourself, help is out there.