## Overview Different time horizons serve different purposes in goal setting. Each plays a unique role in creating sustainable progress and meaningful change. ## Time Horizon Framework ### Short-Term (1-4 Weeks) Ideal for experiments and habit formation #### Purpose - Test new approaches - Build habits - Create momentum - Validate assumptions #### Example Structure ``` Morning Routine (Productivity): Test new morning schedule baseline:30 goal:70 in 2 weeks ``` #### Best Used For - Habit experiments - Process optimization - Skill practice - Quick wins ### Quarterly (3 Months) Natural planning cycle for meaningful progress #### Purpose - Build momentum - Create measurable results - Balance different areas - Maintain focus #### Example Structure ``` Team Development (Impact): Implement feedback system baseline:40 goal:80 end of quarter ``` #### Best Used For - Project completion - Skill development - Relationship building - System implementation ### 5-Year Direction Strategic planning for significant change #### Purpose - Set direction - Build foundations - Develop capabilities - Create opportunities #### Example Structure ``` Career Transition (Achievement): Build expertise in new field baseline:20 goal:90 in 5 years ``` #### Best Used For - Career development - Major transitions - Skill mastery - Relationship development ### 20-Year Vision Life direction and legacy planning #### Purpose - Define legacy - Set life direction - Connect with future self - Guide current choices #### Example Structure ``` Community Impact (Meaning): Create lasting positive change baseline:15 goal:95 in 20 years ``` #### Best Used For - Life purpose - Legacy creation - Major impact - Fundamental change ## Integration Strategies ### Nesting Goals Connect different time horizons: ``` 20-Year: Build impactful organization 5-Year: Develop leadership skills Quarterly: Lead major project Weekly: Practice feedback skills ``` ### Alignment Check Questions to ensure coherence: 1. Do short-term experiments support long-term direction? 2. Are quarterly goals building toward 5-year objectives? 3. Does 5-year plan align with 20-year vision? 4. Are all horizons working together? ## Planning Methods ### Short-Term 1. Define specific experiment 2. Set clear metrics 3. Create daily actions 4. Review frequently ### Quarterly 1. Set main focus areas 2. Define key metrics 3. Create project plans 4. Schedule reviews ### 5-Year 1. Identify key capabilities 2. Map learning journey 3. Create milestones 4. Plan major transitions ### 20-Year 1. Define desired impact 2. Identify key areas 3. Create guiding principles 4. Plan major phases ## Review Cycles ### Daily Review - Short-term progress - Next day planning - Adjustment needs ### Weekly Review - Experiment progress - Next week planning - Quick adjustments ### Monthly Review - Quarterly progress - Course corrections - Resource needs ### Quarterly Review - Major progress - Strategic alignment - Next quarter planning ### Annual Review - Long-term direction - Major adjustments - Year planning ## Common Patterns ### Success Patterns 1. Regular review cycles 2. Clear connections between horizons 3. Flexible adaptation 4. Progressive building ### Warning Signs 1. Disconnected horizons 2. Overwhelming complexity 3. Lack of clear progress 4. Missing review cycles ## Advanced Applications ### Multiple Goal Areas Balance across: - Career/Impact - Relationships/Family - Health/Vitality - Learning/Growth ### Life Transitions Use horizons to: - Plan major changes - Build foundations - Create security - Maintain flexibility ### Team Integration Apply to: - Team development - Project planning - Culture building - Vision alignment --- [[Goal Categories|Explore Categories →]] [[Habit Formation|← Back to Habits]] [[Score System|Understanding Scores →]]