We cannot do everything, at least not all at once. To be successful in anything, it sure helps to know where we are going. That means identifying what exactly the long term goals are. Is long term a year? or two years? maybe a few years?

I want my small business to be successful. That’s not specific enough. It’s not really measurable. How would I know I am “successful” in the right places? I could be really popular but giving my products or services away without making a profit. That doesn’t sound like success to me. Goals need to be specific, measurable, and be the ‘guiding light’ or ‘North Star’ for a business.

Some examples of great long-term goals:

I want to build a home-based bakery business selling high-end, intensely decorated, original cake designs in lots of flavors and styles. Within 5 years, I want to be well-known in the local area, making at least 5 cake orders per week.

The business will change from auto sales to auto rental and auto / limo transportation services, effective on a specific date. Within 2 years, the revenue will be doubled and the profit will be tripled.

My freelancing work will provide 25% of my required income ($xx)by 1 year from now.

There should only be one or two main business goals, because everything else will be based on these goals.