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Going somewhere? Write the 5-year plan you need to achieve it

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What is a 5 year plan?

The benefits of creating a 5 year plan, how to create a 5 year plan in 6 easy steps, 5 year plan examples.

You may have heard of SMART goal setting (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound goals), but have you ever heard of HARD goal setting?

Society has been pushing SMART goals since the early ’80s, but a 2020 study found that people who set SMART goals are much less likely to love their jobs , while people who set HARD goals are 53% more likely to love their jobs. 

But, what are HARD goals? HARD goals are defined as: 

• Heartfelt 
• Animated 
• Required 
• Difficult 

They are goals for which you have an emotional connection, strong visualization, great urgency, and difficulty. 

While there are laudable aspects of SMART goals, the study shows serious problems regarding the ‘achievable’ and realistic’ aspects of SMART goal-setting. 

Methodologies that emphasize creating difficult goals are far more likely to be successful and generate higher employee engagement.

In this article, we’ll show you how to use HARD goals to make a 5 year plan, as well as show you two 5 year plan examples.

A 5 year plan is a personal and/or professional list of goals that you want to achieve in the next 5 years. 

Oftentimes, 5 year plans include smaller, concrete goals, to help you achieve the larger goals on your list. 

For example, if a long-term goal is to buy a bigger house, then a smaller goal might include setting aside a certain amount of money each month to go toward a deposit on a home loan. 

Or, if one of your long-term goals is to be a certified nurse, then a smaller goal might include finding the best nursing program in your area or applying for a student loan.

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One of the best things about a 5 year plan is that it can significantly motivate you to create the life you want to live. Notice we said “create the life “ not just “achieve the goal.” A 5 year plan that works for you will be more effective if you think of your life holistically — how do you want to feel? What values will you be living? — as you create it. 

Whatever the specific goals you have in mind — whether it’s starting a business, becoming certified or developing expertise, competing in an event, having a child, or taking a big trip — a 5 year plan can help you move from dreaming into doing, wish into a reality. 

Here are some other benefits of creating a 5 year plan:

• It creates a starting point for a career, start-up idea, or personal goal . If you have a goal without a plan, it may not ever happen. But, if you know you want to be a real estate broker by 2026, you’re in a better position to start the process and take actionable steps to achieve that.
• It helps you stay focused and aligned with your ambitions, rather than your dreams constantly hanging out in the back seat. 
• It’s a consistent reminder of what you’re aiming toward, and what you need to do to get there. 

The trick is: keep your plan as visible as possible, make sure it’s what you deeply desire, and make sure your goals are specific, measurable, time-bound, and HARD. 

What should be included in a 5 year plan? 

Grab a pen and a piece of paper. Visualize your life 5 years from now, and write down everything you see without thinking or judging . If any fears, doubts, or negative emotions come up, that’s normal. The key is to ignore them and not attribute any meaning to them.

Use the following categories to help you write your complete brainstorm. 

How do you want your nutritional health , mental fitness , physical health , and mental health to look in 5 years?

Are you interested in being vegan? Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to start a yoga practice ? Would you like to regularly meet with a therapist? 

Relationships

Imagine your future professional relationships, friendships, and familial relationships. What do you want them to look like?

Do you want to join a networking group? Are you interested in starting a book club? Do you want to adopt a child? Do you want to take more trips with your partner?

Visualize your financial goals in these buckets: 

• Bills 
• Everyday expenses (i.e. groceries) 
• Flexible spending (i.e. entertainment) 
• Emergency savings 
• Goal savings 
• Investments 

What do you see?

Will you be contributing higher amounts to your 401(k)? Are you planning on saving for higher education? What do you want your emergency savings to look like? Do you want to save for a big trip?

Career/business

What are your career and business aspirations?

Do you picture yourself leading a huge team or an entire corporation? Do you want to be a digital nomad? Are you planning on starting a blog? 

The truth is, the world of business and how people buy and use goods and services is constantly changing — and fast. Don’t get hung up on roles and titles. Especially if you’re early in your career, you will discover career aspirations and opportunities that don’t even exist today. That being said, spend time thinking about what types of activities interest you, what type of environment you enjoy, what type of impact you want to make day-to-day.

If you’re feeling stuck about your career goals, consider:

• Taking career assessments
• Making a list of various career paths
• Finding the overlap between things you like and what companies are hiring for
• Working with mentors
• Building your network
• Creating your own job or business that lines up with your interests
• Listing your passions, values, skills, and interests, then finding or creating jobs that match some parts of the list

If you’re still unsure about your dream job, don’t worry. Go after jobs you’re interested in, learn from them, and eventually, you’ll come across pursuits you’re excited about. Many people also worry if they don’t have a passion. The reality is that pursuing interests and immersing yourself in the work is a good way to discover and develop passion . It’s also okay if you’re multi-passionate and interested in several jobs. 

Personal/spiritual/religious development

How do you want to grow personally and/or spiritually?

Are you interested in starting a home church? Do you want to work with a life coach or career coach? Do you want to meditate more? Would you like to start a gratitude or prayer practice? Do you want to build resilience ? 

Environment/organization/space/home

How do you picture your future environment?

Are you living in a tropical bungalow in Bali? Are you in a newly decorated and renovated home? Do you have a custom pool in your backyard? Are you living with your family to save money? Are you embracing minimalism?

Recreation/fun

What kinds of hobbies will you have in the future?

Will you be snowboarding every winter and surfing every summer? Are you interested in joining a soccer league? Do you want to take up cooking or art classes? 

Service/contribution

What kind of meaningful contribution would you like to be a part of?

Are you interested in volunteering for a vegetable co-op? Will you be tutoring kids on the weekends? Being a mentor ? Do you want to buy monthly groceries for one of your friends in need until they get back on their feet?

• Focus your plan
• Consider potential goals
• Determine your 'why?'
• Identify annual goals and create monthly goals
• Research how to reach your goals
• Adjust and revisit as needed

Here’s how to use your notes to create your plan:

1. Focus your plan

Take a look at your notes and decide which specific areas to focus on. 

You might decide that you’d rather focus on a few areas, like your health and career, or you might decide that you want to focus on all areas. 

Once you decide, grab a piece of paper for every area you plan to focus on and write the area of growth at the top of each. 

For example, if you decide just to focus on health and money, you’ll write ‘health’ at the top of your first paper and ‘money’ at the top of your second paper. 

2. Consider potential goals

Next, divide each paper into two columns. The left column will be for ‘goals,’ and the right column will be for ‘action steps’ or ‘skills.’ 

Then, decide which goals you want to achieve for each category. Remember that ‘specific’, ‘measurable’, and ‘time-bound’ are positive aspects of SMART goals. That said, the ‘achievable’ and ‘realistic’ aspects of SMART goals can deter you from going after more audacious goals. 

Challenge yourself to leave your comfort zone with HARD goals. 

This doesn’t mean setting goals with no chance of success. But, setting goals with, let’s say, a 50/50 chance of success is difficult and ambitious enough to give you a real sense of accomplishment when you succeed.

For example, on your ‘health’ paper, let’s say you decide to write the following in the ‘goals’ column: 

• Be more active
• Increase nutrients 

Then, you might write the following in the ‘action steps’ or ‘skills’ column: 

• Eat raw and organic fruits and vegetables three times a day 
• Walk for two hours a day
• Take a daily multivitamin and add superfoods to morning smoothies 

Next, decide between long-term and short term goals:

Review your list of goals. Decide which are better suited for short-term goals and which are better suited for long-term goals. 

For example, you might decide that being a teacher in Peru is a long-term goal while researching places to live in Peru is a short-term goal. You might start outlining your short- and long-term goals with a 30-60-90 day plan . 

3. Determine your ‘why?’

What’s your big ‘why?’ Why do you want to be a Teaching English Foreign Language (TEFL) teacher in Peru? 

Write your reason down and hang it in a place where you’ll see it daily. 

For example, “I want to be a TEFL teacher in Peru, so I can learn Spanish, help students develop their English skills, and fulfill my dream of exploring South America.”

4. Identify annual goals and create monthly goals

First, establish annual goals that will help you reach your 5 year goals. 

For example, if one of your 5 year goals is to adopt a child, then your first annual goal will probably consist of setting interviews with adoption agencies.

Next, break down your annual goals into monthly goals. 

For example, if your annual goal is becoming a TEFL teacher in Peru, your monthly breakdown could look like this:

• Month 1: Research reputable TEFL programs and set online appointments with TEFL advisors to decide which program you like best
• Months 2-3: Take your TEFL course, study for exams, and write essays
• Month 4: Take your final TEFL exam and wait for your certificate 
• Months 5: Edit your resume and look for a short TEFL internship
• Month 6: Intern with a TEFL academy and ask for feedback from your mentors
• Month 7: Create a lesson plan portfolio and start looking for jobs
• Month 8: Set up job interviews 
• Month 9-10: Land a job from one of your interviews and buy your plane tickets
• Month 11: Move to Peru, find a furnished apartment, and get to know your neighborhood
• Month 12: Start work at your new job as a TEFL teacher 

5. Research how to reach your goals

Next, research the best ways to reach your goals. 

If you plan on moving to Peru, are there some YouTube channels you can check out with tips on how to move? If you plan on creating a start-up, can you meet with some start-up experts that can mentor you? If you plan on learning how to bake macarons, is there a French macaron cookbook you can buy?

6. Adjust and revisit as needed

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. While the 5 year plan is designed to help you stay focused and persist despite bumps and detours, sometimes the unexpected is you.

As you start working on your goals, you may realize that your interests and passions don't quite align. This is where self-directed learning can help.

Plan for periodic review, reflection, and adjustment as part of life. If your long-range plan still feels right, zoom in to your monthly goals. Decide if your monthly goals are working or if you need to adjust them.

For example, you might find that trying to conduct online interviews with a Peruvian academy is impossible. So you could decide to fly out early to meet directors in person instead. 

You may also decide that creating weekly or even daily goals is essential to hitting your monthly goals.

Revisit and revise your plan as often as needed (at least once a year). You might be surprised at how fast you reach some goals while other goals might take a bit longer than expected.

Here's an example of a 5 year plan for a student interested in being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA):

Here’s a personal 5 year plan example for someone interested in becoming fluent in Spanish:

Creating a 5 year plan is one of the best ways to see your dreams come to life. 

At BetterUp, we love seeing individuals reach their fullest potential and achieve their dreams. Request a demo today to find out more.

Shape your future with a coach

Unlock your potential and achieve your 5-year goals with personalized coaching tailored to your aspirations.

Maggie Wooll, MBA

Maggie Wooll is a researcher, author, and speaker focused on the evolving future of work. Formerly the lead researcher at the Deloitte Center for the Edge, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Princeton University and an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Maggie is passionate about creating better work and greater opportunities for all.

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Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Diversity — The Path to my Future: My Life in Five Years

The Path to My Future: My Life in Five Years

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Published: Mar 8, 2024

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Personal development, career goals, social circle, philanthropy.

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Writing a 5-Year Plan: Best Tips & Examples to Get You Started

Last Updated: May 28, 2024 Fact Checked

Creating a 5-Year Plan

What is a 5-year plan, benefits of a 5-year plan, sample 5-year plans, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. There are 10 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 791,047 times.

If you have ideas for things you want to accomplish in your life, a 5-year plan can help you get to where you want to go. A 5-year plan allows you to plot out specific, concrete steps that will help you create the life you envision—but how do you get started? We talked to life and career coach Shannon O'Brien for tips on how you can get your life on track with a 5-year plan.

Writing an Achievable 5-Year Plan

• Visualize yourself in 5 years. Note the changes that need to happen to get you there.
• Find your "why"—the reason you want to accomplish these goals.
• Learn what resources and knowledge you need to accomplish your goals.
• Create specific, measurable short-term goals to work toward your larger goals.

• Think about improvements you might like to see in areas like your health, relationships, career, family, community, religion or spirituality, or hobbies and recreation.
• For example, if you see yourself as a physically fit person running in a marathon, you might design a health-focused 5-year plan with the goal of getting in shape and starting a regular running training program.
• If you're working on a career-focused 5-year plan, you might create a fictional résumé for yourself in 5 years. This helps make the goals you set along the path to success more concrete. Just don't submit your fictional résumé for a job opening! [2] X Research source

• HARD goals are things that you can't imagine life without. If you didn't achieve these things, you would feel as though something was missing in your life. [4] X Research source

• For example, if you want to become more physically fit , your first answer might be so that you feel better about your body. But if you keep digging, you might find that what you're really concerned about is being around and being healthy for your family. Your family is your core value.

• For example, if you have a 5-year goal of running in a marathon, running a 5K wouldn't be a suitable goal for Year 1. There are many Couch-to-5K programs that can be completed in 30 days, so that goal wouldn't be challenging enough.

• For example, if your 5-year goal is to run a marathon, your short-term goals would likely involve running shorter distances, or running a shorter distance at or under a specific time.
• Choose goals that are based on your performance, not on the outcome. These are more specific and measurable. For example, rather than setting a goal of being fluent in a language, you might set a goal to learn 10 new words every day. [11] X Research source

• For example, if you have a goal related to physical fitness, you might need to buy a gym membership or hire a personal trainer.
• Some goals might require you to learn things. For example, if one of your goals is to teach English in Venezuela, you might need to learn Spanish first.

• You might hang a copy of your 5-year plan in your bathroom so you can reflect on it while you're getting ready in the morning, or near your desk so you'll see it while you're working.
• Don't be shy about your 5-year plan—share it with friends and colleagues who can cheer you on, help motivate you to achieve your goals, and hold you accountable.

• For example, what if your 5-year plan was to run a marathon, but you're running half-marathons with ease after 1 year of training? It's not going to take you 5 years to get ready for the marathon, so you might revise it to a 2- or 3-year goal.
• Sometimes you'll also want to revise your plan due to a change in circumstances beyond your control. For example, you'd likely scrap your 5-year plan to pay off your student loans if the federal government announced all student loans were being forgiven.

• The most important thing to remember about a 5-year plan is that it's never set in stone. A lot can happen in 5 years, so it could be that everything in your plan will change.
• The point of the plan is to show a way that you can achieve your goal, even if it ends up not being the way you ultimately get there.
• Any 5-year plan tends to center around your goals, but goals and plans are two very different things. Your goals are what you want to achieve while your plan is like a roadmap that tells you how you're going to get there. [16] X Research source

• Your plan's flexibility also helps motivate you because you aren't as worried about being derailed if you hit a snag. Because you have the big picture in mind, you know you can work through any challenges that come your way.

• If your plan includes a goal that other people are involved in, the plan also gives those people clarity on what they need to do to achieve the goal collectively.
• You don't have to wonder if the next steps you're taking are leading in the right direction because you've already plotted the whole thing out.
• A clear path also enables you to see how to quickly regroup and get headed toward reaching your goal again if you become sidetracked.

• The plan also allows you to see the whole path clearly so you can understand how each small step that you make is gradually getting you closer to achieving your goal.

• For example, if you have a 5-year plan to become partner of your firm, you might take on projects that set you apart from your colleagues or actively pursue promotions. This gives you more control than if you just waited for the higher-ups to notice you.

• When you're plotting out your 5-year plan, you'll naturally think about stumbling blocks that might arise. Then, you can figure out what you'll do to get around them if they do come up.
• With a 5-year plan, you'll feel like you're on top of things because you have all of the details mapped out. Taking care of the details like this allows you to see the big picture and celebrate all the small accomplishments that eventually lead to major success.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://students.carleton.ca/log/five-year-plan/
• ↑ https://capd.mit.edu/resources/creating-your-five-year-plan/
• ↑ https://public.summaries.com/files/samples/hard-goals.pdf
• ↑ Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM. Life & Career Coach. Expert Interview. 24 September 2021.
• ↑ https://www.berkeleywellbeing.com/personal-goals.html
• ↑ https://www.mindtools.com/a5ykiuq/personal-goal-setting
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-cross-examined-life/202401/learn-first-plan-later-drafting-a-useful-five-year-plan
• ↑ https://www.berkeleywellbeing.com/my-10-year-plan.html
• ↑ https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2010-04488-003
• ↑ https://www.mindtools.com/blog/whats-the-point-of-business-plannin-benefits-of-a-5-year-business-plan/

About This Article

To write a five year plan, come up with some goals that are as specific as possible, which will make them easier to track. For example, instead of saying "I want to be making more money," you could say "I want my salary to increase by 15 percent." Once you've made a list of goals, write out a plan for achieving each one. Also, break your goals up into a series of short-term goals so that you feel like you're accomplishing things along the way. For help choosing goals and working toward achieving them, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Develop a 5-Year Career Plan

• Mary McNevin, Ed. D.

Stop setting annual goals, and start thinking longer term.

Having a long-term plan for your career can help you reduce career-related stress, increase your perceived employability, and allow you to connect more deeply with your purpose. But how do you move beyond yearly career goals and create a five-year plan?

• Brainstorm. Start by thinking about how you want your career to develop and what you need to do to get there. This requires self-reflection. You’ll need to identify your primary goal, your passions, how your existing skills contribute to both those things, and your areas for improvement.
• Gather feedback. We’re not aways the best judges of our own capabilities and strengths. That’s why it can be important early in your planning process to gather feedback from your superiors, mentors, and peers. They may help you discover career opportunities you never considered for yourself, clue you into strengths you may be overlooking, and share insights regarding your areas for growth and development.
• Map it out. After doing some self-reflection and gathering feedback, it’s time to organize the information you’ve collected. Consider keeping track of your plan in PowerPoint. For example, slide 1 should outline the career goals you identified in your self-reflection. Slide 2 should list out the skills you already have and the ones you would need to achieve your ultimate career goals. Slide 3 should highlight the development activities you plan to pursue over the next five years to help you achieve your goals. And slide 4 should present all of the possible obstacles that might prevent you from achieving your goal and how to address those challenges.
• Iterate. Unlike year-long goal setting, the process of creating a five-year plan is never complete. One way to ensure you’re keeping your plan updated is to set a quarterly calendar reminder. This will help you address any new developments in your life or career and make changes where necessary.

“Where do you see yourself in five years?”

• MM Mary McNevin, Ed. D. is an executive coach, talent advisor, and former CLO and talent executive. She is a growth-oriented talent management executive with 20+ years of experience in learning, talent management, succession planning, and strategy development. Dr. McNevin earned her doctorate (EdD) from the University of Pennsylvania through an interdisciplinary program between the Graduate School of Education and the Wharton School of Business. Her dissertation focused on Executive Coaching in the C-suite. Dr. McNevin also holds an MBA from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and an MS in Education from the University of Pennsylvania.

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How to Create a 5-Year Plan You'll Actually Stick To [In 4 Steps]

Published: September 19, 2023

One common question you’ll get asked in an interview is, " Where do you see yourself in five years? "

When it’s coming from a hiring manager, we usually have an answer ready. When it comes to your personal life, do you have a five-year plan?

In the most stressful times in my life, planning brings me great joy and peace. But who says you have to wait for the stress to come? In this article, we’ll outline why you should create a five-year plan and how to build one you’ll follow through with.

What is a 5-year plan?

A five-year plan is an outline of professional and/or personal goals you want to reach within the next five years. It usually includes broad goals relating to career, relationships, health, and finances that are broken down into action items and milestones.

Benefits of a 5-Year Plan

Whether professional or personal, a five-year plan can serve as a reset for your life. Who doesn’t like a fresh start?

After all, that’s why New Year’s resolutions are so popular. They give us something to look forward to. There’s also something to be said about writing out a detailed plan. It can be a great motivator to put something in motion.

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Personally, I’ve said countless times that I want to be fluent in Spanish. However, it's not until I write a detailed plan for how that it will become real.

This brings us to our next point: clarity. Sometimes, a path seems scarier than it actually is because we don’t actually know what it looks like.

Creating a plan is like pointing a flashlight in a dark road. A more accurate description is that it turns that dark, twisty road into a clear path forward. Doesn’t mean there won’t be any bumps in the road but at least you’ll know exactly where you’ll land and how to get there.

Lastly, a five-year plan can serve as a reminder of what’s at stake. In your daily life, it can be easy to forget that every day, we’re shaping our future.

The decisions we make today affect what our life will look like years from now. Having a visual reminder of this can keep you focused on your goals.

What to Cover in a 5-Year Plan

Before you get started with your plan, there are a few things you’ll need to figure out ahead of time.

1. Determine areas of focus.

Your five-year plan can cover various areas from education, career development, finance, hobbies, or even health. It’s up to you. Don’t feel stuck having to stick to one category and choose the ones that best interest you and fit your needs.

2. Write down your values.

Putting down your values in writing will help you discover your “why” (more on that later). This step will also help you narrow down what’s most important to you and shape the goals you set for yourself.

3. Research the path to your goals.

Your five-year plan is only as successful as the effort put into creating it. In order to create a viable plan it has to be actionable. Once you’ve got an idea of the goals you’d like to include, start researching the path to attaining them.

For example, if you’d like to set a career goal to become a marketing director, start looking at the steps and credentials required. Do you need to skill up? Is there a pathway at your current job? Doing some initial research will set you up for success.

4. Decide if you’d like to include HARD goals.

Tackling heartfelt, animated, required, and difficult (HARD) goals can be a rewarding but challenging part of a five-year plan. These types of goals will push you out of your comfort zone and help you achieve things you didn’t think were possible before. Think of these goals as highly ambitious but achievable with a five-year timeline.

Think of HARD goals this way:

Heartfelt : What reasons are behind achieving this goal?

Animated : What gets you excited about achieving this goal? Get specific.

Required : What is it going to take to achieve this goal? What will you need to accomplish in six months to a year to stay on track?

Difficult : What skills will you need to accomplish this goal and how will you obtain them?

Now that we’ve covered the groundwork, we’ve got more tips to help you create a five-year plan that keeps you motivated and inspired.

5-year Plan Tips

If creating a plan from scratch makes your eyes glaze over, check out these tips to help you start getting some ideas on paper.

1. Give yourself space to brainstorm.

To help you focus better when creating your plan, do a bit of pre-work. Give yourself time to really think about what you’d like to accomplish and the things that are most important to you. For example, you could write out a list of potential goals or ideas, and then rank them in order of importance — including notes about why they are important.

2. Consider separating long-term and short-term goals.

Once you’ve jotted down some goals, decide which are better suited for short or long-term ones. For example, completely paying off debt might be a long-term goal, but deciding which debt to tackle first could be a short-term goal. It may also help to divide them up into a 30-60-90 day plan to help best set a timeline.

3. Break down annual goals into monthly ones.

Tackling lofty goals can be overwhelming. This is why it’s important to break them down into smaller tasks that are manageable so you don’t get discouraged along the way. Let’s say you want to save $10,000 in a year. You can break that amount down into a recurring monthly payment of $833 or even split it into smaller weekly payments.

4. Find an accountability partner.

Sometimes life gets in the way and throws us curve balls — greatly impacting our ability to stay motivated and consistent. Having an accountability partner can help you stay on track. This could be someone you check in with monthly, a close friend, a family member, or a mentor. Whoever you choose, just make sure it’s someone who will keep you honest. Perhaps they’ll even have their own 5 year plan and you can take this journey together.

5. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments.

Remember that your five-year plan is yours. You can make adjustments as you see fit once you start tracking your progress. If your priorities change, update your plan.

5-Year Plan Template

If you're ready to create your own five-year plan, we've got you covered.

HubSpot created the following five-year plan template for you to download.

Download this five-year plan template

Next, let's dive into how to fill out your plan.

How to Make a 5-Year Plan

1. Know your "why."

This is singlehandedly the most important step in creating a plan.

A clear "why" is your North star. It’s what will guide you throughout your journey and motivate you to keep moving forward.

It can take a while to narrow this down. You’ll know you have the answer when it’s linked to a core value or belief. Otherwise, you have to keep digging.

One way to get to this is by just asking the question over and over again. For instance:

• I want to learn American Sign Language. Why?
• To become more connected to another culture. Why?
• To broaden my perspective. Why?
• To be a more understanding, tolerant, and inclusive person.

Now, we’ve taken something at surface level and brought it down to a personal, human level.

2. Choose your objective.

When creating a five-year plan, you want to review your life as a whole and decide what your objective will be.

Are you focusing on your professional career, your financial goals, or your spiritual growth? Or perhaps you're taking a more holistic approach and combining all of these elements.

If you don’t know where to start, use this: "In five years, I want to be [fill in the blank]." This will help you figure out goals that you may not have vocalized before.

Here are four core pillars you should always consider:

• Health (physical and mental)
• Relationships (with self and others)

Depending on your goals, you can also add categories for religious or spiritual development, recreation, and service.

Don’t forget bucket-list items – have you been wanting to learn a new language? Or perhaps you want to visit every country in the world. Bucket list items are perfect for five-year plans because you can spread them out over a long period of time and have fun tracking your progress.

3. Start with the big ideas then narrow your focus.

When you’re first writing your five-year plan, start with an end goal for each year.

From there, break it down by:

• Process: What steps will you take to meet this end goal?
• Success metric: How will you gauge success?
• Benefit: How does this end goal bring you closer to your five-year plan?
• Resources: Which resources will you leverage to achieve your goal?

This process will help you turn your broad ideas into clear action items that can be executed.

Research will play a big role in this, as you will need to identify resources and set a structure to meet your goal.

For instance, say your five-year financial plan is to be debt-free.

That’s the big idea but you need to dive deeper. How exactly will you achieve that? Your research will likely suggest setting a budget, paying off your most expensive loan first, consolidating your debts, and more.

Once you know the key action items, you can break them down by year.

This is a S.M.A.R.T. goal in action. The more specific you are, the better you will be at fulfilling your five-year plan.

More on that in the next section.

4. Make it S.M.A.R.T.

To give you the best chances of success, every goal should pass the SMART test . That means being:

• Specific – The vaguer your goal, the harder it will be to reach.
• Measurable – You must be able to quantify your goals because otherwise, how will you know you’ve reached it? This doesn’t always mean assigning a figure to it, it can also be a feeling.
• Achievable – While it’s good to push yourself beyond your limits, your goal should be attainable and realistic based on where you stand currently.
• Relevant – How does this goal fit within the bigger picture? Does it align with your personal values? What’s the impact on your life?
• Time-bound – It’s not enough to say it’s a five-year plan, you have to create a timeline and set milestones at specific points within your journey.

5-Year Plan Common Mistakes

We’ve covered what to do and best practices. Next let’s talk about what not to do. Here are some five-year plan pitfalls to avoid.

1. Not setting clear goals.

If your goals are vague, it’s going to be nearly impossible to hit them. You can’t accomplish a goal that’s not clearly defined. When it comes to setting your five-year plan, specifics are key.

2. Not doing enough research.

If you’ve set any formal education or career goals, thoroughly researching requirements is a must. Skipping this step could cause you to miss important prerequisites and derail your goals completely.

3. Failing to set a timeline.

To achieve your goals you must track them. In order to track your progress, you need deadlines in place. Without deadlines you run the risk of aimlessly moving along (or not at all) without hitting important milestones — hindering you from accomplishing long-term goals.

4. Keeping a rigid plan that no longer suits you.

Yes, staying on task with your plan is important, but it is meant to serve you. If the plan you originally set no longer suits your needs, it is perfectly fine to make adjustments. The plan is not set in stone and it should be revised as needed.

Now that we’ve covered our bases, let’s look at some plan examples and templates to help you quickly get started on your own

5-Year Plan Example

Don't let the task of creating a plan from scratch in Excel put you off. There’s plenty of ready-to-use templates that will make light work of formatting so you can focus on hitting your goals.

Best for : Personal or Professional Use

Using our downloadable five-year plan template , we were able to create a detailed five-year plan, broken down by year, process, success metric, benefit, and resources.

2. 24 Slides

Best for : Professional Use

If you’re looking to create a more visual plan to help you stay on track, 24 Slides has an easy-to-customize 5-year business plan template. This template has space to include both short and long-term business goals, plus it includes a variety of charts to help you build an engaging presentation. It’s a good option if you’d like to create a 5-year plan that can be presented to stakeholders within the company.

3. Template.Net

Best for : Personal use

This personal 5-year personal development plan from Template.Net offers a quick way to jot down your goals and strategize how to achieve them. The categories are simple: objective, goals, timeline and activities, and has additional space for you to write out any reminders you’d like to set. Be sure to include your “why” in the objective section to keep your reasons for creating the plan top of mind.

Accomplish More With a Plan

If you want to add more structure to your life and play a more active role in shaping your future, consider creating a five-year plan. While things may not pan out exactly as you've expected, you'll be surprised at how close you'll get to what you wished for.

Editor's note: This article was originally published in May 2022 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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Kick off your five-year plan with this free template.

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How to create a 5 year plan that fires you up (with examples)

Do you know what you’re doing in five years? Or, do you know what you want to be doing in five years?

While it seems like a silly question, it’s something you should ask yourself. Too often it’s easy to focus on getting by day to day but completely lose sight of the goals and dreams you have for the future.

If this sounds familiar and you feel like you’re going through life without any direction, a five year plan might be a good solution to put yourself on track.

This goal-setting technique is commonly used by career coaches, successful business owners and managers, and even world leaders to provide a long-term vision and outline the key steps to achieving that vision.

We’ll walk you through what a five year plan is, how they can be beneficial, some real-life examples, and the steps to take to create a plan of your own.

What is a five year plan?

A five year plan (you might see it abbreviated as FYP) is a timeline of short term goals that you set for yourself to accomplish in five years, usually leading you up to achieving a long term goal by year five. The smaller goals are set on specific timelines and may increase in difficulty as you build your way up through the plan. You can have a five year plan for your personal goals, career aspirations, or both!

Do five year plans actually work?

Five year plans can help you be successful because they help clarify your goals and encourage you to set deadlines to achieve each step you’ve outlined in the plan. And if you’re writing SMART goals, each milestone is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. The plan and that level of clarity can keep you accountable and is a strategic way to see if you’re on track to achieve your short term and long term goals.

In addition, five year plans can be beneficial when it comes to thinking about where you want to go and your dreams for the future. Most people aren’t constantly thinking about what comes next, so this is a good way to focus on where you see yourself going and how you’re going to get there. The plan can provide you with direction and help you articulate that direction when you’re asked about your future goals (whether you share a personal goal or career goals) in an interview or in other settings.

Plus, here’s a handy trick all the best goal-getters use: Place your five year plan in a visible spot, like your closet door or on your refrigerator. That way, you see your goals every day. That means they’re always on your mind and you don't lose sight of the bigger picture you're working toward.

Five year plans aren’t just for individuals

Five year plans work so well, they’re used for more than just personal or career achievement. They guide large-scale or national initiatives, too. One of the most famous examples of a five year plan (albeit, ultimately not a positive one that we'd suggest emulating) is the Five Year Plan introduced by Joseph Stalin for the Soviet Union from 1928-1932.

This plan focused on economic development by rapid industrialization and the collectivization of agriculture, with the goal of boosting the country’s economy. For the next few decades, Stalin implemented several other five year plans following the initial plan and the Soviet Union also assisted other countries, like China, in creating their own plans for economic growth.

This model of goal-setting is still used in China today. Recently, the Chinese government released its 14th Five-Year Plan in April 2021 that largely focuses on decreasing CO2 emissions and reducing energy consumption. These climate goals are meant to slowly decrease carbon emissions so that the country can reach its ultimate emissions goal by the year 2030.

China’s 14th Five-Year Plan provides a high-level overview of how the government will plan for the country’s economic and social development for the next five years, with subsequent sector-specific and regional plans following with the details of how things will get done. By creating a plan, the government is sharing its goals for the country and it serves as a roadmap for citizens and global partners to understand where the country is going and how they can fit into that picture.

How to write your own five year plan

Despite the fact that five year plans have found a place in history among world leaders, that doesn't mean this type of strategy is inaccessible for you. You can create a plan to identify your concrete goals and hash out the details of how you'll get there.

Ready to write a five year plan of your own but wondering where to start? Look no further. We have some simple steps for you to follow here.

1. Decide what you want your plan to focus on

As mentioned above, your five year plan can focus on an objective in your personal life, it can outline stepping stones for your career, or it could help you hit milestones for some of your hobbies. You can also create a five year plan that includes all of those categories and more. It’s up to you how broadly you want to plan out the various aspects of your life. Typically, five year plans include goals from the following life categories:

• Relationships
• Miscellaneous (depending on your values or interests, this could be something recreational, spiritual or faith-based, or travel-related)

As you contemplate what you want your plan to focus on, it may help to consider your dreams for each of those categories. Do you want to become an executive at a company? Do you want to run a 5K? Or, do you want to do volunteer work at a nonprofit? Think as big and bold as you want for each life category.

2. Write down your big goals

Now that you have an idea of what you want to focus on in terms of life categories and the dreams you have, it’s time to write down your big goals. Try to have one big goal for each category, but you can also add more than one if you think it’s realistic to achieve those goals within a five year time frame.

While you’re writing down your goals, make sure they follow SMART goal guidelines. As a refresher, a SMART goal is:

• Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish? What nitty-gritty details can you include?
• Measurable: How will you know when this goal has been accomplished?
• Achievable: Is this goal realistic or within your current abilities? How will you accomplish it?
• Relevant: Does this goal make sense and is it worthwhile to pursue?
• Time-bound: What milestones and deadlines will put you on the path to achieving this goal?

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3. Find your "why"

As you write down the big goals you want to accomplish in five years, make sure you know why you want to reach that goal. A best practice is to write down your “why” so you can remember your purpose when you start to experience difficulties or challenges in pursuing your goal. Looking at your why statement will help remind you why this goal is important or meaningful and where you’re hoping to go in the future.

Here are a few examples of including the “why” in a goal:

• I want to run a marathon in the next five years and will spend the next five years training by running a 5K, 10K, and half marathon annually and will work my way up in distance each year to reach a marathon by year five. This will fulfill my passion for running and exercise as well as make me feel empowered that I can train for and accomplish a feat like running 26.2 miles.
• I will boost my retirement savings by increasing my savings contributions from 15% to 20% in five years. This will help me stay disciplined in my spending and set me on a path for a secure financial future.

4. Determine the steps to achieve the big goals

You’ve got the goals and you’ve got your “why.” Now, it’s time to write down the steps you’ll take to reach those dreams. For a five year plan, it’s usually helpful to create annual milestones that you’ll need to achieve to hit your big goal by year five. Then, you can create a weekly goal or monthly goal for each year that will get you closer to those annual milestones.

For the example of running a marathon, the annual goals could be:

Year 1: Run a 5K

Year 2: Run a 10K

Year 3: Run a half marathon

Year 4: Run two half marathons

Year 5: Run a marathon

From there, you can create monthly goals to help yourself prepare to run each race designated for the year.

5. Research your goals

While you’re creating your five year plan, it doesn’t hurt to put some research into your goals to see how other people are achieving similar dreams and what preparation can be helpful for the journey. If you have friends or family who have gone after similar objectives, ask for advice or what steps they took to reach success .

You also could pick up trade publications or books published on a topic related to your goal to learn about best practices and guides to follow. For the marathon example, online trainers may have running schedule templates or eating guides you can follow to make sure you’re not overexerting yourself and are fueling your body appropriately.  

6. Find a community

Many people going after their goals find greater success when they can lean on a community of like-minded people. Whether it’s a group of friends, a partner, or an online community, having others to talk about your goals and share the experience with will help you stay motivated and energized about your dreams. A personal coach or trainer is another way of finding someone to lean on and keep you motivated in the pursuit of your goals.

It’s an idea that’s been proven to work. Multiple studies have shown that people who set goals with a partner and work together to achieve them will have greater success. Why? Because you have someone that will keep you accountable. For example, if your motivation has dwindled or disappeared and you don’t feel like going for a run, your goal buddy who usually runs with you can be a source of encouragement to get you off the couch.

Finding a person or group to be at your side as you chase after your dreams can not only help you be more successful in accomplishing those goals, but may open the door for new friendships or to grow closer to the people in your life.

What’s an example of a 5 year plan?

Here’s an example of a high-level five year plan that covers goals in the following life categories: career, financial, relationships, health, and travel.

Career long term goal : Work up to become a manager of a team.

Year 1: Tell your current manager about your goal and ask for advice and coaching.

Year 2: Ask for a stretch assignment at work.

Year 3: Become a mentor for someone at work.

Year 4: Lead a large team project.

Year 5: Ask for the promotion.

Financial long term goal : Save $10,000 to pay for home upgrades.

Year 1: Start putting aside $100 from every paycheck.

Year 2: Sell any unneeded or unwanted home items in a garage sale.

Year 3: Increase paycheck savings to $150.

Year 4: Limit spending on eating out, new clothes, etc.

Year 5: Start the upgrades!

Relationships long term goal : Make time for long-distance college friends and plan a trip together at least once a year.

Year 1: Offer to host everyone for the weekend to catch up. Set up a monthly Skype chat.

Year 2: Continue monthly Skype chat. Plan a weekend trip to Chicago.

Year 3: Continue monthly Skype chat. Visit another friend’s home for the weekend.

Year 4: Continue monthly Skype chat. Offer to host another weekend get-together in addition to a weekend trip to the city later in the year.

Year 5: Continue monthly Skype chat. Plan a week-long trip to the beach.

Health long term goal : Practice meditation and mindfulness to decrease anxiety.

Year 1: Say no to extracurriculars that don’t fill you up. Start meditating for five minutes every day.

Year 2: Increase daily meditation to 10 minutes every day.

Year 3: Continue daily 10-minute meditations and spend five minutes journaling every day.

Year 4: Take 30 minutes every day to complete a 10-minute meditation, five minutes of journaling, and a 15-minute walk.

Year 5: Continue your 30 minutes routine of meditating, journaling and walking. Book yourself a weekend retreat with a friend to work on mindfulness together.

Travel long term goal : Visit 25 states in five years.

Year 1: Visit three states within driving distance and visit two states traveling by plane.

Year 2: Visit one state within driving distance and visit four states traveling by plane.

Year 3: Visit one state within driving distance and visit four states traveling by plane.

Year 4: Take a two week road trip and visit five states relatively far away from home.

Year 5: Visit one state within driving distance and visit four states traveling by plane.

A 5 year plan can remind you of where you want to go.

Creating your own five year plan is a great way to set a direction for yourself and see your dreams come to life. The plan can keep you motivated and remind you of your purpose if you start to lose sight of what you’re working toward. Plus, if you work on your goals with others, they can help keep you accountable.

Of course, there may be times during your journey where you might get off course from the timeline or decide some goals don’t fit into your life anymore. That’s completely normal. Think of the plan as a living document that can evolve with you as you go through your life. It doesn't have to be set in stone if you decide you’d like to no longer work toward a goal or you have new aspirations. As long as you keep working toward something and push yourself to achieve the dreams you want, a five year plan can be a useful tool.

As you begin to put your dreams into action, F4S has free personalized coaching that can help you achieve every goal that's a part of your five year plan. Try getting started with the Goal Catcher program to set yourself up for success as you tackle each step of your plan.

Get started now with your own personal A.I. coach , who will help you become an expert goal-setter in no time.

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My coaching Plan:

Our expert coaches have designed hyper-effective programs that will help 

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Coach Marlee (your amazing AI-powered personal coach) will analyse your unique traits and goals to let you know which program to start with (and if there are any you should skip)! Your recommended programs include:

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Inspire yourself and others to see and achieve grand visions and goals. A focus on goals is especially helpful for figuring out your next step, maintaining focus on your career and life goals over time, achieving satisfaction at work and in life.

Increase EQ

Explore, develop or strengthen your emotional intelligence (EQ). Awareness of your and others’ emotions is at the heart of making fulfilling changes in life, ‘reading people’, impactful communication, deep relating and authentic connections at work and in life.

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In this high impact eight week program Coach Marlee will help increase your comfort and confidence to take on positions of influence and leadership, navigate organizational politics and also help you develop greater comfort to compete and collaborate at the top of your industry or field.

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Develop ‘step back’ mastery for increased self-awareness and tools to figure out your next step. Reflection and patience are core to consolidating learning, development, strategic thinking, recharging and living an authentic and meaningful life.

Trust Your Gut Feel

Explore and strengthen your confidence to make your next move. Trust in your ‘gut feel’ and point of view is especially important in finding out what will bring you happiness at work and also for living an authentic and meaningful life.

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In this high impact nine week program Coach Marlee will help you to increase your energy, vitality and general wellbeing while also helping you to break through self sabotage and develop life long skills for emotional resilience and self-esteem. Enjoy weekly cutting edge science backed wellbeing resources from both Marlee and our wellbeing partner Blisspot.

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In this high impact eight week program Coach Marlee will help you increase your comfort and confidence to be in positions of influence and leadership, navigate organizational politics and also help you develop greater confidence to compete and influence at the top of your industry or field.

Multiply Your Impact

Multiply your impact by embracing the experience and genius within others. During this eight week program Coach Marlee will help you to develop a genuine appreciation for experimentation and data and a willingness to empower the opinions, feedback and insights within your team and others in your life.

Explore, strengthen and stand by what you believe in at work and in life. Trust in your ‘gut feel’ and point of view is especially helpful for influencing, starting your own business, having your personal needs met and for living an authentic and meaningful life.

Inspire yourself and others to see the bigger picture! Increase your comfort and use of abstract and strategic thinking to gain a broader perspective in work and life. Big picture thinking is key in communication, leadership, businesses, selling, marketing, and situations where you need to get the gist of things quickly.

Develop ‘step back’ mastery for increased self-awareness and developing mindsets and tools for constant improvement. Reflection and patience is core to consolidating learning, development, strategic thinking, recharging and living an authentic and meaningful life.

Close the gap between your great ideas and starting them. Energy and drive for starting is key for inventing new things, starting businesses, selling, marketing, socializing or in situations where you need to think on your feet.

Explore, develop or strengthen your emotional intelligence (EQ). Awareness of your and others’ emotions is at the heart of influencing, ‘reading people’, impactful communication, deep relating and authentic connection at work and in life.

Inspire yourself and others to see and achieve grand visions and goals. A focus on goals is especially helpful for inspirational leaders, starting your own business, impactful communication, or for achieving awesome outcomes at work and in life.

Testimonials

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101 Best 5-Year Goals Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

5-Year Goals are considered intermediate to long-term goals, but they’re close enough that we can visualize them easily, get motivated to get started immediately, and maintain focused .

This is the sweet spot where you can aim big, but also actually realize your dreams in not too much time.

It takes about 5 years to do big things, like earning a PhD, rise in the ranks in your career, save up for a house downpayment, and so much more.

Below are some 5-year goals to get your mind turning, set out using SMART goals principles. I’ll explain the S.M.A.R.T goals acronym at the end of this article and provide a printable template for you to use, as well, so don’t miss that at the end.

5-Year Goals Examples

Career goals.

1. Job Advancement: Obtain a promotion to a management position within the current organization by seeking additional responsibilities and excelling in them.

2. Professional Development : Earn an advanced degree related to current occupation (such as an MBA for a finance professional) within the next five years.

3. Networking : Attend at least two industry-specific conferences or events annually to build a broad professional network.

4. Skills Acquisition: Learn two new job-specific skills every year to increase versatility and efficiency (For instance, a web developer might aim to master Angular and React frameworks).

5. Career Change: Transition to a fulfilling career in environmental science by undertaking a part-time course and gaining relevant certifications by the end of the 5-year period.

6. Career Milestone: Successfully lead a major project or initiative that sees completion and positive results within the organization by Year 5.

7. Workplace Influence: Earn a seat on an influential committee or board at the workplace within the five-year timeframe.

8. Public Speaking: Give at least two presentations at industry conferences every year, thereby improving public speaking and presentation skills.

9. Salary Increase: Aim to increase current salary by 20% through promotions or role revisions over the next five years.

10. Published Author: Write a book relevant to your profession or industry and get it published by the expiry of the 5-year period.

11. Start a Business: Launch a small consulting firm within the existing profession after bolstering your expertise and network for the next five years.

12. Tech-Savvy: Gain proficiency in three new software or tech tools relevant to your role each year, filling up the tech toolkit with 15 new skills by Year 5.

13. Industry Recognition: Win an industry-specific award or recognition by consistently performing above and beyond in your job role throughout the five years.

14. Intellectual Property: Contribute to company innovation by filing for at least one patent related to your work by the end of the five-year period.

15. Enterprise Leadership: Establish a leadership role in your organization by positively influencing change or improvement in enterprise-wide policies or procedures within the planned five years.

See Also: Long-Term Career Goals

Health and Fitness Goals

16. Regular Exercise: Implement a daily exercise routine and stick to it, aiming to work out at least five days a week.

17. Weight Management: Reach and maintain a healthy body weight after a careful evaluation with a healthcare professional.

18. Strength Training: Incorporate strength training into a weekly workout protocol twice or more.

19. Healthy Eating: Transition to a well-balanced diet, incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains daily.

20. Chronic Disease Management: Successfully manage any chronic diseases (like hypertension or diabetes) with healthy practices and routine check-ups with a medical professional.

21. Mental Health: Prioritize mental health by setting aside time each day for activities like meditation, journaling, or quiet reading.

22. Flexibility: Improve flexibility with regular stretching or yoga, aiming to be able to perform key flexibility tests successfully in five years.

23. Marathon Runner: Train for and successfully complete a full marathon.

24. Regular Check-Ups: Keep up-to-date with routine medical and dental checkups, ensuring all vaccinations are current and all recommended screenings are completed.

25. Adequate Sleep: Achieve a stable sleep schedule that ensures at least seven hours of rest each night.

26. Hydration: Drink a minimum of eight glasses of water per day, tracking this habit for consistency.

27. Quit Unhealthy Habits: Let go of any detrimental habits, like excessive caffeine, junk food, or prolonged screen time.

28. Cardio Fitness: Improve cardiovascular health significantly, as reflected in improved numbers in medical check-ups or ability to perform more strenuous exercise.

29. Outdoors Activity: Incorporate outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or swimming into your monthly routine, aiming to spend more time in nature for added health benefits.

30. Stress Management: Implement efficient stress management techniques (such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or a hobby) to maintain a better-balanced, healthier state of mind.

Also Consider: Setting Ten-Year Goals

Financial Goals

3 1. Debt Reduction: Create a strategic plan to pay off significant debts, like student loans or credit card balances, within five years.

32. Emergency Fund: Save six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund.

33. Investment Portfolio: Build a diversified investment portfolio with stocks, bonds, and other assets after seeking sound financial advice.

34. Retirement Savings: Contribute consistently to a retirement account with the goal of maximizing the employer-matched funding percentage, if applicable.

35. Home Purchase: Save for a down payment for a house, targeting a budget-friendly home that suits your personal and possible family needs.

36. Insurance Coverage: Review and optimize insurance coverages (home, health, auto) to ensure you’re not overpaying but still adequately protected.

37. Credit Score: Work towards achieving a credit score above 750, taking steps to correct any inaccuracies and to pay all bills on time.

38. Budgeting: Stick to a strict monthly budget, tracking every expense to ensure you’re living within your means and saving sufficiently.

39. Charitable Donations: Dedicate a part of your annual income for charitable donations, contributing to causes you deeply care about.

40. Financial Literacy: Take courses or read books on financial management to enhance your understanding of taxes, investments, and retirement planning.

41. Child’s Education Fund: Start a college fund for your child, if applicable, contributing a set amount each month or annually.

42. Reduce Housing Costs: Refinance your mortgage (if you have one) to take advantage of low interest rates and reduce your monthly payments.

43. Professional Growth: Invest in professional development or advanced education to warrant increased earning potential.

44. Vacation Fund: Save a targeted amount for a dream vacation in five years, setting aside a specific sum every month.

45. Second Income: Explore and establish a passive income stream, like rental income or online business, to boost overall earnings.

Hobby Goals

46. Language Learning: Become fluent in a foreign language through consistent study and practice.

47. Musical Instrument: Learn to play a musical instrument proficiently, such as the piano or guitar.

48. Cooking Mastery: Master the art of cooking, aiming to conquer diverse cuisines and complex dishes.

49. Reading Prowess: Read 50 seminal works in literature over the next five years.

50. Green Thumb: Develop a vibrant garden, nurturing a variety of plants and vegetables over five years.

51. Photography: Improve photography skills to the point of organizing a small exhibition or publishing a photo book.

52. Painting: Complete an important project like creating a series of paintings for local exhibitions or auctions.

53. Writing: Write and self-publish a book or a series of short stories.

54. Dancing Proficiency: Become proficient in a specific style of dance by taking regular classes or lessons.

55. Fitness Enthusiast: Master a challenging sport or physical activity like rock climbing or martial arts.

56. Wine Tasting: Gain substantial knowledge about wine varieties, graduating to conducting informative wine tasting sessions.

57. Crafting Skills: Learn and master a specific craft, like pottery or knitting, producing a substantial number of pieces.

58. Astronomy: Learn about space and celestial bodies and aim to identify all constellations in the night sky.

59. Expert Gamer: Master a particular video game, aiming for high scores in national or global leaderboards.

60. Traveling: Visit all continents within the next five years, experiencing different cultures and expanding your global perspective.

See Also: Goals for Life Examples

Student and Educational Goals

61. Degree Completion: Accomplish graduation in your chosen field within the given timeframe.

62. GPA Achievement: Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher throughout your academic journey.

63. Scholarship Attainment: Secure a scholarship or grant, reducing financial stress related to educational costs.

64. Internship: Garner relevant professional experience by landing and succeeding in at least two internships during your course of study (see also: internship goals examples ).

65. Research Paper: Participate in a major research project and get a research paper published in a reputable journal.

66. Study Abroad: Plan and execute a semester abroad, experiencing and learning from a new cultural environment.

67. Volunteer Service: Engagement in regular volunteer activities, contributing to societal and personal growth.

68. Networking: Actively build a professional network by attending career fairs and using platforms like LinkedIn.

69. Language Proficiency: Become proficient in a foreign language, expanding your global connectivity.

70. Time Management: Develop excellent time management skills to balance academic, personal and social life efficiently.

71. Relevant Skills: Master relevant software or tools related to your chosen profession. (For instance, coding languages for computer science students).

72. Public Speaking: Improve your public speaking skills by participating in oration activities or joining a campus debate club.

73. Leadership Role: Secure a leadership role in a campus organization or club, honing transferable skills like team management and problem-solving.

74. Post-Graduation Plan: Have a post-graduation plan in place by Year 4, be it employment, further studies or entrepreneurship.

75. Comprehensive Resume Portfolio: Develop a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your academic projects, internships, skills, and achievements, ready to present to potential employers or postgraduate admission panels.

See Also: Long-Term Goals for Students

Personal Goals

76. Communication Skills : Sharpen communication skills for ease in social and professional settings, focusing particularly on active listening and clear articulation.

77. Healthy Relationships: Cultivate and preserve quality relationships with friends and family, ensuring frequent contact and valuable interactions.

78. Life Balance: Achieve a solid work-life balance by generating set boundaries and pledging attention to each life area.

79. Personal Development: Invest in personal growth through regular reading, podcasts, or webinars on self-improvement.

80. Mental Wellness: Prioritize mental wellness, incorporating mindfulness and regular emotional check-ins into your daily routine.

81. Sustainable Lifestyle: Shift to a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing waste, recycling, and using eco-friendly products.

82. Cultural Awareness: Improve cultural literacy by studying and appreciating various global cultures, to better understand global diversity.

83. Conflict Resolution: Learn effective conflict resolution strategies for dealing with personal and professional disputes.

84. Anger Management: Develop an effective anger management strategy that helps maintain emotional equilibrium in high-stress situations.

85. Journaling: Start maintaining a personal journal to record thoughts, ideas, and experiences, fostering self-expression and introspection.

86. Personal Style: Develop personal style, ensuring it is an authentic reflection of your personality and preference.

87. Cooking Skill: Become proficient in cooking, mastering a diverse menu of dishes.

88. Digital Detox: Regularly schedule time to disconnect from digital devices, reinforcing balanced mental health and improved personal relationships.

89. Emotional Intelligence: Enhance your emotional intelligence by recognizing, understanding, and managing your emotions effectively.

90. Self-love: Nurture self-love, practicing self-care, and regularly setting aside “me” time.

See Also: A List of Long-Term Personal Goals

Family Goals

91. Quality Time: Commit to spending quality time together as a family at least once a week, regardless of what activities take place.

92. Family Traditions: Establish and embrace meaningful family traditions that can become an anticipated part of each year’s celebrations.

93. Shared Meals: Aim to have meals together as a family on most days, cultivating open communication and strengthening bonds.

94. Financial Stability: Generate a sound family financial plan, securing stability and potential for long-term goals like retirement or children’s education.

95. Annual Vacations: Plan and execute an annual family vacation, letting the destination or activities cater to everyone’s preferences.

96. Home Projects: Undertake home-based projects together, such as home improvement or gardening, encouraging cooperation and a shared sense of accomplishment.

97. Health Habits: Foster healthy habits within the family, such as eating balanced meals, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

98. Emergency Plan: Formulate a comprehensive family emergency plan, ensuring all family members know what to do in case of natural disasters or accidents.

99. Regular Communication: Uphold regular communication within the family, maintaining an open platform for discussions and problem-solving. (You might want to see my detailed article on communication goals for similar examples .)

100. Conflict Resolution: Develop a constructive approach for resolving conflicts within the family, promoting harmony and understanding.

101. Family Reunions: Organize a family reunion at least once in the five-year period, building bonds with extended family members.

How to set SMART 5-Year Goals

Once you have selected a few goals from the above list that resonate with you, it’s time to build them out using the SMART goals framework .

S.M.A.R.T is an acronym that explains five key elements you want in a well-crafted goal:

• Specific: Research shows being specific when writing down your goals increases your likelihood of achieving your goals (Milne, Orbell & Sheeran, 2002).
• Measurable: You need to be able to measure goal progress and know when you’ve achieved success. This could be a goal weight if you want to lose weight, a goal GPA at school, etc.
• Achievable: Generally, I recommend you balance your goal out so it’s not too easy, not too hard – you think it’s achievable with effort. But with 5-year goals, I encourage my students to think a little bigger than they otherwise would. We tend to underestimate what we can get done within five years.
• Relevant: Your goals should be relevant to the bigger picture. When it comes to 5-year goals, make it relevant to your phase of life. If you’re in your early 20s, it might have to do with travel or education. If you’re in your 30s and 40s, it might be more about family or building up a nest egg for retirement.
• Time-Based: This one’s easy. Set 5 years as the end date when the goal needs to have been achieved! But, you could also put in place short-term goals as well, which will act as milestones on the way to your 5-year plan .

Use the following template to turn your goal into a SMART goal, which will help you to build out your goal setting:

Get the Google Docs Template Here

Bill Gates once said, “most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in five years.”

Well, he said ten years. But the same goes for the 5-year plan: we can get a lot done in 5 years. We can achieve things that are well over our horizon. So, dream big and believe that if you work hard every day, you can get anything done within 5 years!

Davis, W. D., Mero, N., & Goodman, J. M. (2007). The interactive effects of goal orientation and accountability on task performance.  Human Performance ,  20 (1), 1-21. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/08959280709336926

Daw, N. D. (2015). Of goals and habits. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112 (45), 13749-13750. doi: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1518488112

Doran, G. T. (1981). There’s a S.M.A.R.T. Way to Write Management’s Goals and Objectives. Journal of Management Studies , 70-75.

Ehrlich, C., & Milston, S. (2021). Happiness through goal setting: A practical guide to reflect on and change the reasons why you pursue your most important goals in life . London: Routledge.

Latham G.P., Locke E.A. (2018) Goal Setting Theory. In The SAGE Encyclopedia of Industrial and Organizational Psychology . London: SAGE.

Milne, S., Orbell, S., and Sheeran, P. (2002). Combining Motivational and Volitional Interventions to Promote Exercise Participation: Protection Motivation Theory and Implementation Intentions,  British Journal of Health Psychology,   7 (2): 163–184. Doi:  https://doi.org/10.1348/135910702169420

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 19 Top Cognitive Psychology Theories (Explained)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 119 Bloom’s Taxonomy Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ All 6 Levels of Understanding (on Bloom’s Taxonomy)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Self-Actualization Examples (Maslow's Hierarchy)

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August 29, 2023

Coach Foundation

Achieve your higher ed and career goals with a five-year plan

Whether you are starting college now or are further along in your higher education journey, long-term goal planning is critical to turning your dreams into actionable steps.

Not sure where to start or how to set goals? Consider creating a five-year plan! A five-year plan is a strategic outline that students create to map out their goals, aspirations, and actionable steps over a period of five years.

5-Year Plan Example

In the summer of 2023, the Coach Foundation welcomed Point Foundation scholars to Coach headquarters for their annual Dream Day as part of their Dream It Real initiative. At the event, attendees filled out a “Dream It Real Roadmap” to help them explore their dreams and how they can accomplish them in a month, a year, five years, and beyond.

As students enter this new school year, help make your dreams a reality with the Dream It Real Roadmap.

5-Year Plan Template

• Start your journey to dreaming it real by jotting down your dreams and what you would like to accomplish in the next month, year, five years, and lifetime. Be as specific as possible and remember: no dream is impossible.
• We believe that to dream it real, we need to create the frameworks that will allow us to put our dreams into action. Consider how you will develop your skillsets, how you can remove barriers for yourself or others, and how you can create a network of support around you to help you towards your goals.
• Mentors can be a valuable resource when navigating personal and professional goals, and they can also help expand your networks. With your mentor, review your goals and the pathways and tools you have mapped out and see how they can support you in achieving those goals. Learn more about Point’s mentorship program for LGBTQ students here .
• When working towards your goals, stay true to yourself and have the courage to be real!
• In the next _____ months/years, I will work towards my goal(s) of _________________. I will use the skills that I have developed such as __________________ and ___________________ to make my dreams a reality. In times of doubt or adversity, I know I can lean on ________________ and myself to help me find the confidence and the power to keep pursuing all of the wonderful things that I have set my mind to. I, ___________________________, promise myself that I have all that I need to dream it real.

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• How to Answer “Where Do You...

How to Answer “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

7 min read · Updated on March 25, 2021

Even if you don't know where you see yourself in five years, there's a right way to answer this question during an interview.

“Where do you see yourself in five years?”

There is perhaps no interview question as daunting or mind-numbing. No worries, though — hiring managers and employers aren't concerned with your actual plans. When asking this question, an interviewer isn't expecting you to know 100 percent where you see yourself in the future, but they do want to know if you have ambition, goals, focus, and drive. They want to know you've at least considered your future and what you'd like to accomplish.

Why hiring managers ask these types of interview questions

So, if hiring managers don't actually care about your path in 1,820 days, why do they ask this silly question? Well, asking "Where do you see yourself in five years?" is more about getting insight into your hopes, aspirations and goals for the next few years. Interviewers ask about objectives you have set to give them an inside look into how you operate and structure your thoughts. The interviewer wants to understand more about your career goals and how their position would fit into your grand plan. Companies want trustworthy, detail-oriented, and dedicated team members who are willing to take a leap — not a noncommittal employee who is only sticking around until a better opportunity arises elsewhere.

Hiring managers may pose this common interview question in different ways.Below are a few examples of similar job interview questions that aim to uncover the same information:

What are your long-term career goals?

What is your ideal dream job at this stage in your career?

What are you looking for?

How do you define success?

What is most important to you in your career?

What is your five-year plan?

What is your goal in the next five years?

Where will you be in five years?

Before the interview

Preparing for "where do you see yourself in five years".

No one has a crystal ball and knows where they will be in five years, and the hiring manager is aware of this. They are not looking for you to lay out a specific plan, detailing everything you are going to do. Instead, focus on what your dreams are, where you would like to take your career path next, and how you plan to do this. Also, be sure to focus on how you plan to help the company. Hiring managers want candidates who will add value to the team and help advance the company. And don't forget to be realistic — hiring managers are as likely to reject a far-fetched idea just as quickly as no idea at all.

Think about the answer to this question ahead of time. Consider practicing your response out loud with a trusted friend so you can hear yourself speak and make tweaks if needed. While developing your answer, keep in mind what the hiring manager or interviewer wants to know when they ask you this question: your work-related goals, ambitions, desired training, and so on. What type of positions do you see yourself occupying? What type of training? Are you interested in leadership positions, or would you like to keep your focus on the technical aspects of your work? Provide quantifiable answers when possible.

Write out your five-year plan. While it's hard to know exactly what you'll be doing or where you'll be in five years, try visualizing and imagining where you would love to be, the type of culture you'd like to be in, the types of positions you'd like to maintain, the type of experience and accomplishments you'd like to have had, and so on. Take these items into consideration and then make a list of them with a roadmap as to how you'll achieve them. This will help you share where you see yourself in five years from an honest and thoughtful perspective.

During the interview

Answering "where do you see yourself in five years".

When answering this question, be honest and be yourself. Sharing what you think the interviewer wants to hear may seem like a good idea, but if it's out of alignment with your truth, you can get in trouble down the road if you do get hired. Plus, it's much easier to be yourself than to try to be someone you're not.

Also, keep your answer specific and work-related. The interviewer doesn't need to know that you plan on having two kids and a white picket fence in five years. In fact, if you do share this, they might hear, "I'm going to be taking a lot of time off from work to take care of my kids after they're born. Work is not my priority." It might seem unfair, but it's true. Keep your answers to-the-point and about your work goals and visions.

An example response:

Let's say you're interviewing for an HR position at an organization and are asked, "Where do you see yourself in five years?" You might answer as follows:

"In five years I would like to expand my horizons by jumping in feet first and learning as much as I can, as quickly as I can, with the organization. From there, I'd seek out opportunities — at least one to two a year — to expand my knowledge through training and educational opportunities to support my job. I'd love to participate in at least one project geared toward leadership training, if the opportunity arises. I also understand that the organization has a strong volunteer team, and I'd like to be an active participant of that team, as well. At some point, I'd also like to be considered for a supervisory or management level role."

Keep it primarily work-related, show ambition, show that you've done your homework, and provide quantifiable long term goals. The key is to be confident, honest, clear, and succinct, and, of course, to answer the question.

What not to say when answering "Where do you see yourself in five years?"

While it's important to understand the right way to answer, it's also good to keep in mind what an interviewer does not want to hear when they ask you, "Where do you see yourself in five years?" In short, be careful how you answer this popular interview question, and try to avoid answers like this: 

That you plan on a short-term tenure with the company. If an organization is going to invest time and resources in you, they want to believe you'll be with them for the long haul or at least five years. Employees may now be spending less time in a role before moving on, but you definitely don't want to let the cat out of the bag that you don't plan on being with the organization for very long (unless you're interviewing for a temporary position).

That you haven't given any thought to your future with the company or life in general. Whatever you do, do not respond, “I don't know.” If the answer doesn't come to you at first, take a few seconds to think about how you have grown over the last five years. Consider the natural flow of progression and formulate an answer. Again, one of the main reasons this question is asked is to find out if you have goals and are excited about your prospective future with the company. They also want to know that you have ambition and a good work ethic and that you've considered how you might handle your work if you were to be hired.

That you want their position. Yes, the interviewer wants to know you're ambitious, but you don't want to let it be known that you're very eager to move up and see yourself in their position, especially if it's a small company where such opportunities are few and far between.

The chances are good that you'll be asked this question at some point during your career. Luckily, now you know you've got the skills to answer with a slam dunk. 

Before you can answer this question, make sure your resume is getting you the interviews. Check your resume with a free review today by one of our career experts. 

Recommended Reading:

How Should I Answer "Tell Me About Yourself" During the Job Interview?

Talking About Your Short and Long-Term Goals During The Interview

How to Answer “Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?” — Even if You Got Fired

Related Articles:

Is It an Interview or Not? Interview Tips for Either Way

What Kind of Job Candidate Are You?

How to Ace an Interview With a Little Help From a Friend

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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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• 20+ Best Core Values: Examples for Healthcare Industry

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Five Year Plan, Essay Example

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First Semester

• Skills seminar
• Information literacy
• Computer technology
• Anatomy, physiology
• Medical terminology

Second Semester

• Laboratory technique
• Medical reimbursement
• Office administratio
• College math
• Medical emergency

Third Semester

• Career development
• Law and ethics
• Laboratory techniques
• Medical billing
• Clinical office proc.
• English composition

Fourth Semester

• Semester psychosocial
• Microbiology
• Word processing
• Art and science elective
• Medical assisting

In order to successfully job hunt and network it is important to utilize the education that has aided in the personal preparation. I will achieve my desired position in the healthcare field from the knowledge gained from the four semesters outlined above. First semester will cover freshman skills seminar which will briefly outlines the expectations of what we will learn over the course of our education. Information literacy will help in the identification of information and the ability to locate, evaluation, and efficiently utilize what we have learned. The fundamentals of computer technology are important for achieving my job as well. Computers are utilized in every field and having an adequate knowledge of how to use them is important. Anatomy and physiology is learning the functioning of self. This is the self being of action and reaction. The last course of the first semester is medical terminology. This is where I will learn the proper terminologies and meanings of terms used in the medical field.

The second semester I will learn about laboratory techniques. This is important in understanding biological methods. Medical reimbursement will cover the funding and details in securing payment for services. Medical office administration addresses the details in running a medical office. This included the medical terminologies and specifics necessary to successfully run an office. College math will also help with achieving any desired job I pursue; it will also help with life in general. Understanding math is important in business, as the bottom line in any field is typically determined by numbers. Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their effects on the human body. This is the basic understanding of the modes of actions of drugs. Lastly, I will use my knowledge in medical emergency for allied health professionals. This will aid me in addressing any medical emergency that may arise in my professional field.

The third semester will help me achieve my desired career in several areas. The career development seminar covers personal development for my chosen field. It shows the details and benefits of many different avenues. Laws and ethics for healthcare professionals is a vital class for my future. There are many ethical issues that will arise and knowing how to address them is important. The laws are also important to knowing the guidelines of my medical career. Laboratory techniques will help me know the correct way to utilize data and avoid potentially dangerous outcomes. Medical billing will cover the coding and proper procedures for ensuring payment. Clinical office procedures will aid me in understanding the necessities of running an office. I will learn the right and wrong way for implementing office procedures. Lastly, English composition, this is important for any career and life in general. Being able properly articulate in a manner that comes across both professional and educated is something that will be vital in my career search.

The fourth semester will aid in my future job search in many different areas as well. The psychosocial aspects of healthcare address certain areas of illness and disability along with chronic illnesses and rehabilitation. Microbiology for allied health professionals provided an understanding for the principles of immunology and microbiology. This is important for being able to handle infectious disease and the systematic approach for handling it. Word processing is important in business as well. This is used for producing and storing written text and most businesses used some type of Microsoft product for handling business. The art and science elective is good for general knowledge in a liberal arts field. Lastly the medical assistant externship will allow me to gain a hands on experience in my given career field.

I will take several steps to successfully find the job I am looking for. First I will utilize the resources available at the university to find potential openings in my chosen career field. Having an inside recommendation from a school or professor could have a lot of weight in getting an interview. I would also make a list of potential positions from job search engines such as career builder and the local paper. I will then create a cover letter summarizing my experience and education based on the requirements of the job. Once I have my resume and cover letter complete, I will take it to the potential employers. Following up after they have had time to review it will hopefully land me several interviews. I then will have the option to chose which one best suits my future career endeavors.

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• Interview Questions & Answers

How to Answer: “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” (+ Examples)

“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

Wait, does that mean recruiters expect you to predict your future with pinpoint accuracy? Will they hold you to a precise five-year plan? No, not really.

Rather, by asking this interview question, they want to understand your general long-term professional goals. It’s like they’re saying “let’s talk about all the potential paths you envision for your career and how you plan to get there.”

And while this once-classic question about your 3–5-year career plans is slowly becoming obsolete, you might still hear it. It’s just that the expectations for a good answer have changed significantly.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Why interviewers ask “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
• How to prepare an answer that stands out.
• Sample great answers to “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
• Common mistakes to avoid when talking about where you see your professional future going.

And if you just want a quick recap of the main points, here it is.

How to answer “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

• Show that you’re ambitious, goal-oriented, and that the job fits into your long-term goals.
• Tie your answer to the position you’re interviewing for.
• Emphasize continual learning. Let them know you want to take on courses, certifications, or other types of professional training.
• Stay realistic. Mention a job role or scope of responsibilities that’s a reasonable progression from the job you’re applying for.
• Be flexible. Although you should have an idea of where you want to be, demonstrate that you’re adaptable to change, as the business landscape is always evolving.

Want to get an offer after every interview? Our interview prep tool will guide you through all the questions you can expect, let you record and analyze your answers, and provide instant AI feedback. You’ll know exactly what to improve to turn your next interview into a job.

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Why Do Interviewers Ask “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

First of all, yes, this question sounds intimidating but, in reality, recruiters don’t really want to hear your specific, detailed 5-year plan. They simply want to know your long-term career goals (and if you have a 2-year plan and are still considering your options after that — that’s fine, too).

Interviewers will ask you “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” for two main reasons:

To find out about your general career goals

Are you thinking long-term and do you have a clear plan for what your future should look like?

If you’re already making plans, it will probably mean you’re decisive, organized, responsible, proactive, and motivated.

To find out about your goals within this company and this position

Interviewers want to know how the position you applied for will fit into your long-term goals.

They want to know if your development plans are in line with the approximate career progression plan for the role you’re interviewing for.

And most importantly, they must check if you’ll be happy and fulfilled in your new role so that they won’t have to hire again soon.

How to Answer “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

As we explained above, there are five key steps to crafting a good answer:

• Show that you’re ambitious and that the job fits your goals.
• Emphasize continual learning.
• Stay realistic.
• Be flexible.

1. Show that you’re ambitious and that the job fits your goals.

You need to show them why you’re a good pick for that particular position.

Talk about how your plans are aligned with what the company wants to achieve with this open position. You can usually figure this out by looking at the job ad or by speaking to the recruiter about the position — there must be a reason they opened it in the first place.

2. Tie your answer to the position you’re interviewing for.

We’re not saying you should make it up, but there must be a mutual factor beneficial to both you and the company.

Take this example: you’re a senior content writer who would like to become Head of Content one day. The company says it’s growing and will potentially need someone to take over the writing team in the future.

Bam! It’s a perfect opportunity to mention how you plan to develop leadership skills to run a team one day.

3. Emphasize continual learning.

In order to be successful in just about any job today, you need to be committed to life-long learning and development, both personally and professionally.

And you have an opportunity to bring it up in your “Where do you see yourself in 5 years” answer.

So make sure you mention your growth goals and briefly outline the steps that will get you there. That said…

4. Be realistic.

It takes years to progress from one level to another, so if you’re a recent grad starting your career, saying you want to be a VP or Head of X in 5 years will make you look naive.

Also, when speaking with a hiring manager, avoid borderline arrogant statements like “In 5 years, I will be in the position you are now,” even if intended as a joke.

5. Be flexible.

Nothing better than an adaptable candidate with a quick wit.

In your answer to “Where do you see yourself in 5 years,” demonstrate your ability to adapt and navigate change.

Mention a plan B you have in case your plan A gets derailed. Talk about one or two additional paths you’re considering, depending on the situation on the market, in the industry, and the company you’ll work for.

For more useful tips that’ll help you become an offer-generating machine, we’ve prepared a free course (where we teach you how to speak about your strengths, sell yourself , and negotiate the salary and benefits of your dreams).

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” — Answer Template and Sample Answers

Let’s take a look at some examples.

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” — Sales Representative Sample Answer

Why we like it: The candidate doesn’t need help with setting up a plan — they already have a thorough understanding of what it takes to become a successful Sales Representative. Hiring managers love candidates with clear goals and dedication to professional development. Plus, the candidate mentioned they’re looking to settle in an appropriate company, and considering how costly it is to replace and train new employees, any company would be happy to hire a person who wants to stay there for a longer period of time.

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”: Content Writer Sample Answer

Why we like it: The candidate is thinking both short and long-term (which is awesome as some skills can be acquired faster than others). In addition, on a long-term basis, they have a more ambitious goal of developing strategic skills so that they can work on content strategy, as well as writing. This is something that any company could benefit from, so it’s a good thing they mentioned it.

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” — Software Developer Sample Answer

Why we like it: This answer demonstrates a commitment to life-long learning and flexibility. The candidate wants to work on the soft skills that would help them get into a leadership role when the time comes, but they also want to remain in their expert field and stay in the loop with the trends and innovations. This way, whatever the market situation is in the years to come, the candidate will have options to choose from.

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” — Project Manager Sample Answer

Why we like it: The candidate is specific. They clearly outlined the methodologies they want to be certified in and listed specific soft skills that’ll help them become a well-rounded professional. Additionally, they provided a reason for why they want to work in this specific company and why they’d be a good culture fit.

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” — Teacher Sample Answer

Why we like it: The candidate succinctly lists what their values and interests are, and says they’re looking for a company with the same focus. A nice way to demonstrate alignment between their personal goals and what the institution is doing.

Still not sure how to use these examples? Here’s a template we created that combines all the best techniques:

“Where Do You See Yourself in X Years?” Template

“In the next [X] years I plan to grow in [area 1] and [area 2] and pursue [goal 1] and [goal 2]. I’d also like to master [set of needed skills]. As for what comes next, I’m considering a few best-case scenarios that seem great at the moment. Right now, my ideal situation would be [scenario 1]. But I’ll know which one is best later on, once I gain a better understanding of how my skills evolve and where the market’s at.”

“Where do you see yourself in five (or any other number) years?” is one of those questions that tend to be asked really frequently. Other common interview questions include:

• Tell me about yourself
• Why should we hire you?
• Why do you want to work here?
• What are your strengths?
• What are your weaknesses?
• How do you handle conflict?
• How do you problem-solve under pressure?

You can learn all about them by clicking the links from the list above. Or, get an all-in-one guide here: Common interview questions & sample answers .

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Answering the “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” Question

Being too vague or general.

You already know you need to be specific in answering pretty much any interview question. The same applies here.

is simply not a good answer. The reasoning is good, but you need to add to it by explaining in more detail what you’ll do to get there. You need to be able to provide more specific information.

Now, this is a much better answer because it outlines what particular steps you’ll take and where you expect them to lead you.

Being too honest or weirdly specific

Similarly, you want to avoid being too honest and answering the “Where do you see yourself in 5 years” like this:

What’s wrong with it: It shows you did not take the question seriously, did not prepare for the interview, that you lack planning skills, and have no desire to progress in your career.

What’s wrong with it: If there’s already a person in the Head of X position, answering the question like this will showcase your competitive nature (and you haven’t even landed an offer yet). It simply looks bad.

What’s wrong with it: You’ve placed yourself in too many boxes here. You narrowed it down and got so specific that there’s only a limited number of companies you will be able to do this at, and it’s very likely that the one you’re interviewing with will simply not check all of your boxes.

Focusing solely on personal goals or aspirations

Avoid focusing strictly on what’s in it for you.

Sure, the question asks about your goals in the next 5 years, but remember that recruiters are trying to check if you and the company are the right fit for each other.

So you need to show the alignment between your plans and the company’s goals to display you’re the right match.

Overpromising or setting unrealistic expectations

It will paint the wrong picture of you and your abilities and set employer expectations high. And if you can’t fulfill them and deliver on your promises and goals, you’ll end up looking bad.

Always stick to realistic goals and set proper plans that follow them. Delivering on what’s promised, even if it’s not crazy ambitious, will send a message that you’re a person of their word.

Showing no interest in the company or industry

Remember this answer: “In 5 years, I want to become a Head of People and Culture, leading a team of at least 5 recruiters and 2 managers, working in a B2B SaaS company that’s also strictly remote and from the US.”

In addition to being a bit too specific, it also demonstrates the candidate and the company are not the right fit.

What if it’s a B2C company in the ecommerce space that’s office-based? It checks zero candidate’s boxes.

Now, don’t get us wrong, it’s great that the candidate knows what they want, but if they know that the company does not meet the criteria, they’re wasting their (and the company’s) time.

That’s why you always need to tailor your answer so that it encompasses your goals and displays interest in the company you’re interviewing with, or the industry it operates in.

Want to score more interviews? Time to up your resume game. We’re here to help, make sure you give these handy guides a read:

• How to Write a Resume That Lands Jobs
• Which Resume Format to Choose
• Resume Summary Examples
• Resume Objective Examples
• Resume Profile Examples
• How to Describe Your Work Experience on a Resume
• How to Create an Education Section on a Resume
• The Best Skills to Put on a Resume
• How to Describe Hobbies and Interests on a Resume

Additional Tips for Answering the “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” Question Effectively

Research the company and its industry trends.

Being in the loop with the company’s events and industry trends will always get you bonus points.

That’s why you can dig around the company’s website (Events, Career, and About Us pages) to get informed; and you can keep track of industry trends by subscribing to newsletters, starting a LinkedIn profile, or reading online newspapers such as Tech Crunch and similar.

Incorporating the info you find here in your answer to the “Where do you see yourself in 5 years” will show that you’re well-informed, aligned with the company and industry, resourceful, and a well-rounded person that could easily fit in with the team.

Reflect on your career goals and aspirations

Before you even hit the “Apply” button, you need to sit with yourself and carefully think about your goals and aspirations.

Be true to yourself and determine your career goals. It will help you down the road, as you’ll be more transparent about where you want to go and what you want to achieve.

Plus, you can save yourself time and effort and apply only to companies that align with your goals.

Need help finding the right jobs to apply for? Here’s a 4-step guide to help you niche down.

Tailor your answer to the specific job and company

As we already suggested above, whenever you can, tailor your answer to the specific job and company.

After you’ve done your research, it should be fairly easy to do it, as the mere fact that you decided to apply and landed an interview says that you could be a fit and there are mutual goals for both you and the company.

Focus on your goals but always tie them to what the company can get from them, and emphasize your skills and traits that could be particularly useful for the company.

Practice your response to build confidence

All the thinking in the world won’t help you if you don’t prepare your answer in advance and practice .

We recommend that you write your main points down. In this case, these would be your key goals and ambitions for the next 5 years.

Then put them into a single, coherent answer.

Don’t learn it by heart (you don’t want to sound robotic), but have a sense of what you’ll want to mention and how you want to phrase it.

When you have it figured out, head to the Mock Interview Practice Tool and record your answer. Ta-da! You’ll get an instant report on what you sounded like and how to improve (feedback like word choice, power words you used, your speaking speed, how many filler words you used, etc.).

“Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” — Popular Opinion vs. Expert Advice

Now, let’s analyze some popular advice on social sites like TikTok, Reddit, YouTube, or Quora.

We asked our two experts, Big Interview’s co-founder and Chief Career Coach with 15+ years of experience, Pamela Skillings, and Michael Tomaszewski, a Certified Professional Resume Writer, to analyze the tips given by the community.

A Reddit user asked: “All my interviewers have asked “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, but I still haven’t come up with a good way to answer it apart from the joking “still here, I hope”. The truth is that I don’t really know how far I can get in five years. 

Here’s what the most upvoted advice by johnnychimpo017 was: 

You could say something like: “In 5 years I want to be known as a Subject Matter Expert, who my peers look to based on my knowledge and ability to coach/mentor.” This answer works no matter what the job: be an expert in a process, a product, a technology, or an architecture. Think of it less of “how far I can get” and more “what kind of responsibilities I want to have”. Or say you’d like foreign experience if the company has foreign offices. The key is to paint a positive future with yourself being a valuable employee. Saying stuff like “still here I hope” makes it seem to the interviewer that you have no aspirations. 

Overall, you’ll come across as someone who is invested in contributing positively to the workplace, which is something employers often look for in candidates. — Pamela Skillings, Chief Coach at Big Interview

Next, a popular TikTok where user @millionmilestravelmaker said:

As for me, I’m declaring that in 5 years time I will be packing my bags and chasing my dreams around the globe. So traveling around the world and earning six figures.

While it’s great to see ambition, this answer isn’t appropriate for a job interview. Stating a desire to travel and earn six figures might be exciting for personal goals, but it lacks commitment to the specific role or company. Interviewers are likely to be concerned about your dedication to the job, as it seems more focused on personal aspirations than contributing to the organization. — Michael Tomaszewski, CPRW

In another similar Reddit thread, user punknprncss said:

It’s best to take a step back in this question and ask yourself, why is this question asked in the interview? Hiring managers will be looking for a few things — Does this candidate set realistic goals? Do they have an idea of where their future is going? Are they ambitious? Do they present themselves as someone that will be with us long term? If I was hiring for an admin or marketing role and a candidate said “In 5 years, I’d love to be working in IT”, I would likely consider them not to be a good fit as it doesn’t align with the role. If they said in 5 years they want to be a vice president, again not a good fit as it’s not realistic.

But I would love answers like “In the next 5 years, I hope to have learned a variety of skills and tasks and be in a position to take on higher level tasks and consider a management role. I hope to be in a company that allows for career growth and provides new opportunities as I enjoy learning new skills”.

The example answer provided is excellent. I like how they advise job applicants to always try to understand the purpose behind the question. Just like you, employers know that life is unpredictable, and nobody’s expecting you to give them a bulleted list of your exact yearly plans. Generally, what people like to hear is that you have a solid career plan and aspirations. Be reasonable and a little ambitious. Remember that it’s less about the exact position and more about the soft skills and business acumen you plan on acquiring over those years.

— Pamela Skillings, Chief Coach at Big Interview

The Evolution of the “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” Question

Now, in all honesty, when recruiters ask the question “Where do you see yourself in 5 years” and its variations like:

• Where do you see yourself in 3/5/X years
• Where do you want to be in 5 years
• What do you want to achieve in the next 5 years
• What are your goals when applying for this job
• What are your long-term career goals

… they probably do understand that you might not have everything planned out for the years to come.

We could indeed argue that rigid planning no longer makes sense.

Nowadays, we’re seeing rapid changes in technologies and job markets. Just remember the pandemic, ChatGPT craze, and The Great Resignation, for example. There are too many factors at play and making strict plans in such a climate might now always be a good idea.

Additionally, the gig economy and remote work are becoming increasingly popular. A lot of work can be outsourced and given to anyone, anywhere on the planet. There are way fewer office limitations.

So when recruiters ask you this question, aim to display your planning and long-term thinking skills but leave some room for flexibility and adaptability. It could show you’ve taken into account even the elements you can’t predict, and it will bring bonus points.

Summary of the Main Points

• Recruiters ask “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” to check your long-term thinking and career goals, as well as how they fit with the company goals.
• Emphasize this alignment and show why this collaboration would be fruitful for both you and the company.
• Demonstrate your commitment to continual learning and the ability to successfully navigate changes (being flexible).
• Be clear about your career goals and show interest in the company you applied for, but don’t be too specific, don’t overshare your personal goals, and don’t overpromise on your goals.
• Tailor your answer to the specific job opening and practice your response.

We hope these tips will help you make the most of your answer.

___________________

Need a hand? There are 3 ways we can help you:

• Learn how to answer the dreaded “Why do you want to work here” question and wow hiring managers.
• Learn how to turn more job interviews into job offers here . (Rated with 4.9/5 by 1,000,000 users).
• Use our Resume AI tool to instantly improve your resume

What if the interviewer asks about where I see myself in 2 years?

Focus on your goals and the skills you wish to acquire that align with the company’s objectives. Emphasize how you plan to contribute to the company’s success and professional growth in that time frame.

What if they ask about where I see myself in 10 years?

Share a long-term vision of your career growth while being flexible, as industries can change rapidly. Demonstrate how you intend to grow within the company and how its growth aligns with your professional aspirations.

What if I don’t have a 5-year plan for myself?

Develop a general but flexible plan that demonstrates your ambition and commitment to growth. Identify the skills you want to develop and where you want to make an impact in the company or industry, leaving room for change as circumstances evolve.

Isn’t the “Where do you see yourself in 5 years” question a bit old-school?

While it may seem old-school, this question assesses your ambition, commitment, and compatibility with the company’s future plans. An effective response shows your understanding of the industry, your professional goals, and how well you align with the company.

Do I need to tell them that my plan is to stay with them for the next 5 years?

Show your interest in staying by articulating how you see the company helping you grow professionally and how you plan to contribute to its growth. Conveying mutual benefit and long-term commitment, without rigidly locking yourself in, is key.

What if, within the next 5 years, I plan a career break to start a family? Do I disclose that?

Focus on your professional goals while being mindful of any legal rights or company policies about family planning. Don’t feel obliged to disclose personal plans, but emphasize commitment and dedication to the job during your time with the company.

What if I know I’ll no longer work for them 5 years from now? Do I lie?

Rather than lying, frame your response around your professional growth, immediate goals, and how you can contribute to their company. Focus on the mutual benefits you can bring each other during your time together.

Maja Stojanovic

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The Professor Is In

Guidance for all things PhD: Graduate School, Job Market and Careers

Why You Need a 5-Year Plan

By Karen Kelsky | May 2, 2014

This is a re-post of a previously published post.  In the wind-down weeks of Spring, we will focus on big-picture planning for your career trajectory in the immediate and longer term.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When I trained my own Ph.D. students, I always urged them to create a 5-year plan. Some did it as a list, and some as a grid. Either way, the plan laid out a month-by-month schedule of plans and goals and deadlines for the next five years.  My very first Ph.D. student was a master of the 5-year plan (indeed, she’s the one who inspired me to make it a regular requirement), and she just got tenure at an R1 this spring!

Things that are on the 5-year plan include:

• Specific writing projects with deadlines for completion, submission, and revision
• Graduate program deadlines for exams, proposals, and defense
• Major conferences with deadlines for submission of abstracts and proposals
• Job market deadlines
• Major funding deadlines, including both small grants to support short research trips, and large grants to fund dissertation fieldwork.
• Networking goals, including reminders to get in touch with certain individuals related to emerging new research or writing projects
• Teaching dates
• Submission dates for awards and honors

This week I recommended that a client create a five year plan, as part of our work on CV-building, and when she sent back her first draft, she remarked, “Once I began drafting them, I realized how vague and perhaps unrealistic my goals may be – especially in terms of landing a tenure-track job. (Yikes!)   Thinking long term has been so useful, if not startling; I only wish I had thought to map out the next few years sooner!”

I don’t think anybody should ever be in graduate school, or on the tenure-track, without a five-year plan. The proper stance to these endeavors is: look up, evaluate, and adjust, look up, evaluate, and adjust. Spend too much time looking down, at the minutiae of your project, and you’ll find that critical opportunities have passed you by, opportunities to publish, get funding, attend meetings, make connections…

Some of my clients are masters of the five-year plan, and even have things like getting pregnant in there. I admire that, even while I know that “the best laid plans…” You can’t plan for everything (or, you can, but your plans may not work out). But the core point of planning is this: that you’re taking control of your process into your own hands, and not leaving it out there somewhere, in the hands of your advisor, your department, or “fate.” You decide when you’ll write, when you’ll defend, when you’ll publish, and so on. These are all your decisions to make.

Addendum:  please see more on the 5-year plan, with an example, in this follow-up post.

Similar Posts:

• In Response to Popular Demand, More on the 5-Year Plan
• Productivity Tuesday: Missed Deadlines Can be Deadly
• Getting Ready for the Job Search
• How to Build Your C.V.
• Strategizing Your CV for the Job Market

Reader Interactions

April 26, 2012 at 5:59 pm

At what point in graduate school do you think it’s realistic to start making a 5 year plan like this? In experimental psychology, having that list of research papers with deadlines sounds ambitious for the first year, given how much people change their minds about what experiments to run. Are you recommending starting the first year, or just as soon as you know what conferences/journals to apply to and what research program you might want to follow? Thanks, A researcher who will soon be applying to graduate school

April 27, 2012 at 12:08 pm

I suggest starting the first year, even if it just includes the courses, and departmental deadlines only. (don’t forget there are lots of departmental and campus funding competitions with deadlines that will apply to you.) Adapt it on a semester-by-semester or annual basis as new vistas emerge.

April 26, 2012 at 9:36 pm

Would you mind sharing a “sample” five-year plan? How do we balance between realistic and too ambitious?

April 26, 2012 at 11:25 pm

That’s a great idea; i considered sharing my former student’s, but I’m not sure she’d appreciate that. Let me think about it.

April 27, 2012 at 1:04 pm

Thanks, Karen!

It might be useful to have several templates to show the different priorities/goals depending on where you are: ABD, first year on the tenure-track, etc.

May 16, 2012 at 2:59 pm

I agree, it would be really helpful to see a model of how to do this!

April 27, 2012 at 8:13 am

I’ve been told by professors to slow down, have fun, and let experience come to me. One said, “people who time things always get it wrong.” But it’s really hard not to plan when most (if not all) of my grad school friends are ABDs. These ABDs talk about their dissertation research and writing and applying for fellowships, so these topics all in my head instead of coursework. How can you reasonably suggest this kind of 5 year plan with your (new) adviser? Or should this 5 year plan really wait until halfway or the end of the first year when some coursework has been done?

April 27, 2012 at 12:06 pm

You don’t actually have to suggest it to your advisor. Just do it for yourself. of course there is much you don’t know yet and can’t plan, but put in everything you CAN, with your best guesses/estimates of a timeline. And then adapt it on a monthly or semester basis. Personally, I say start now and put the classes in there, so that you can look out at the flow of courses and ask yourself if you’re taking them in the best possible order…

April 27, 2012 at 12:22 pm

A question: Would you recommend a month by month plan, or by semester/quarter, or do you just make a list of things you want to accomplish each year? Thanks.

April 27, 2012 at 4:15 pm

The one my student produced was a month by month grid, but not every month nec. had entries in it. Some months, like Nov., had lots of things, and then some months, like July, had nothing.

April 29, 2012 at 10:16 pm

A friend of mine nailed a tenure line position when she was asked what her 10 year plan was during the campus visit. She had an a detailed response ready and is now associate level at that University.

April 30, 2012 at 9:47 am

There ya go! Everyone needs one! (Like a good moisturizer).

April 30, 2012 at 3:32 pm

I’ve been thinking about this all day and I have one thought- what if you’ve been incredibly diligent about your 5 year plan and a ton of it goes south? I am constantly assured that academia entails a load of rejection, but things that haven’t worked out for me despite feeling like I have adequate mentorship include:

-most of the major dissertation funding grants -conference panel and paper proposals galore -book chapter proposals

My advisor, who is genuinely a kind person, tries to reassure me that these are just “window dressing” on my future job apps, but I feel like as far as my CV is concerned I’m in the same boat as someone who isn’t a careful, meticulous planner.

My academic self-esteem is just in the toilet right now and I feel like a total failure.

April 30, 2012 at 3:55 pm

Oh dear. So, this is where you have to realize that you have a very nice, but rather worthless, advisor. Please read my post, The Top Five Traits of the Worst Advisors. The worst of all advisors is the nice advisor who keeps telling you that you’re fine, and everything is going to work out great. They need to deliver the bad news, BUT THEN, on top of that, assist you in immediate and concrete ways to improve. So here is what should have happened prior to this, if the mentorship had actually been ADEQUATE: your advisor would have observed that your conference abs. was rejected, and would have asked to look at it, and would have told you immediately what you did wrong, and overseen your rewrite for the next conference. Ditto, book chapter proposals (although you know I despise those anyway) and diss grants.

In short, what is happening here is that you have not been forced to master the writing formulas of these proposals. And nobody bothered to tell you that, or perhaps even to inform you that there ARE writing formulas, and that writing proposals for articles, grants, and conference papers is completely formulaic.

So this is of course bad and good news. The bad news is, this should and could have been corrected earlier. The good news is, you can correct it now. But you’ve got to move fast. It sounds like you’ve advanced pretty far under the current regime, and may be coming up on finishing. Don’t wait for your advisor to help. Don’t even bother to ask you advisor for help. Email me and I can direct you to the blog posts that will help you; that’s free. If you have some $$ to spend of course you can also work with me personally.

Meanwhile, you’re not a failure. The fact that you’re commenting here on this blog shows that you’re walking in the right direction. You can still turn this around.

April 30, 2012 at 5:37 pm

Hm, according to the worst advisors metric, my primary advisor is a combination of two – nice, and never around. He’s an extremely ambitious associate prof who thinks I myself am ambitious enough to manage myself and reassures himself that he’s doing enough by dismissing my concerns/flattering me (so that he can focus on his career, most of which occurs far from our dept).

I emailed you. Sigh.

May 1, 2012 at 9:39 am

Dear Karen,

Thank you so much for this and the numerous posts that have all been incredibly useful when put into practice.

I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of free software or a web site that would allow me to create a five year grid like the one shown above. Or if anyone else knows, don’t hesitate to reply.

May 1, 2012 at 12:13 pm

i was actually wondering about that. I’m not sure what she used. It doesn’t look like Excel, actually.

May 1, 2012 at 12:35 pm

Most likely ’twas just the Table feature in MS Word (on a piece of paper oriented for landscape printing). Arrows (and more) can subsequently be overlaid using the Drawing toolbar. Might take a moment or two to set up–but once you’ve got your own template, it’s just a matter of adding deadlines and the like to it. Whiteboards also work for such plans: Although they’re not portable, they can be larger and allow more space for notes and details.

May 1, 2012 at 1:35 pm

May 2, 2012 at 11:17 am

May 2, 2014 at 10:51 am

Hi, there is lots of project management software out there that could be adapted for such purposes. I like Trello, although I don’t know if it would be great for this precisely. I would recommend looking around (if you search for ‘project management software’ you’ll find a number of different and free options). It’s a personalized type of software, but it can be really handy. Why I would recommend this over Excel or tables is that project management allows you to move different projects through phases. So, for instance, if you submit an article and it gets rejected, you could keep that on there and switch the plan to revise and submit elsewhere, maintaining a timeline. I hope this is helpful!

May 5, 2014 at 5:39 pm

Is it worth delaying your defence by a year in order to add publications and conferences to your CV, if these are areas in which you’re lacking? Coming from a Top 10, if that’s relevant. Thanks!

December 2, 2014 at 2:30 pm

Why didn’t I know this 5 years ago?! That would have been a major help for the last year of PhD. 🙁

January 7, 2015 at 5:51 pm

Karen, the link to the follow-up post seems to be down. I found it. Just FYI.

January 8, 2015 at 10:50 am

January 14, 2016 at 3:04 am

I am a real planner in my life, but when things have not gone as I’ve planned, I’ve learnt so slow down. I found it better for my mental health. Anyway, I am in the final stage of my PhD. I’d like to finish in a few months. I still don’t know if I will be able to have an academic job or if I should opt for a non-academic career. I was thinking to leave the door open for both possibilities. Should I write a double 5-years plan? One for academia and the other for non-academic career? And how could I plan, if I don’t know how the job market will be once I finish my dissertation? Thank you in advance

January 14, 2016 at 9:25 am

I think the double five year plan is an excellent idea! Please find all of Karen Cardozo’s guest posts on this site to read more about how to think about the post-ac option (and indeed, just devour ALL the guest posts in the “post-ac help” category for their deep insights.

March 22, 2019 at 9:26 am

Hi Karen, just interviewed for a teaching college and they asked me about my research and grant writing to then say they only expect professors to teach and research will have to be done on personal time. It seemed they were impressed with my research, so I find it like mixed messaging. Anyhow, I also realized I didn’t know how to answer the 5-year plan question: They asked “where do you see yourself in 5 years.” This was after they asked me something where I had already laid out my research/publication plan. What do teaching schools want to know about “where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

March 22, 2019 at 10:53 am

Good question. Perhaps answer more holistically – expect to have moved on to mynext major project on XXX, also have established a set of courses in rotation on xx and yy, perhaps having built a new program on XXX in the department to train students in XXX, and I hope to be taking a leadership role in my discipline, in the area of XXX.”

[…] Why You Need a 5-Year Plan | The Professor Is In Collaborate with Colleagues Using Google+ with Extras – ProfHacker – The Chronicle of Higher Education This past summer I wrote about staying connected with family using video chat software . […]

[…] inquiries about what, exactly, a 5-Year Plan should look like, following on last week’s post, Why You Need a Five-Year Plan, I am sharing the plan produced many years ago by my first Ph.D. student, who is now an Assistant […]

[…] Why You Need a 5-Year Plan | The Professor Is In […]

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[…] also gone ahead and created a Five Year Plan as advocated by Karen Kelsky, as a way of keeping track of conferences, deadlines and term dates. […]

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[…] Followed advice from The Professor Is In blog and made a 5 Year […]

[…] her most recent post, “Why You Need a Five-Year Plan,” Dr. Kelsky exhorts readers to draft a formal plan for the next 5 years of their career, to […]

[…] to get tenure), set goals that are realistic. There is a lot of material available about making a five-year plan. One of the things that you might want to ask yourself is if you are planning on having any or any […]

[…] hearing of my neurotic research crisis, turned me on to the need for me to sit down and create my five-year plan for research. I followed her advice and the model Karen presents on her blog, but my five-year plan […]

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[…] and timelines, parsing out important tasks over a series of a few weeks, months or even years. Often I’ve found that breaking down big tasks into a series of smaller steps and smaller […]

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Five Year Plan - Free Essay Examples and Topic Ideas

A five year plan is a strategic roadmap that outlines an organization’s or individual’s goals and objectives for the next five years. It includes specific actions, timelines and outcome measures. A five year plan typically helps organizations or individuals to achieve long-term success by breaking down their goals into smaller achievable objectives. This plan can provide a sense of direction and focus for an organization or individual, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation. A five year plan can also serve as a basis for measuring progress over time, by regularly reviewing and adjusting the plan’s objectives based on internal and external factors. Ultimately, a well-crafted five year plan can help an organization or individual to achieve growth, development and success.

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10 Sample Answers to “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

Ever wondered how to ace the ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’ question in job interviews?

At MatchBuilt, we’ve seen over 70% of employers ask this, making it a crucial pivot point for your career narrative. It’s not just about ambition; it’s a litmus test for your alignment with the company’s vision.

In this post, we’ll unlock the secrets behind this question, drawing on insights from top industry recruiters. Expect to find expertly crafted sample answers tailored to various career paths, equipping you with the right tools to articulate your future goals in sync with potential employers. Let’s dive in and transform your interview responses into compelling career stories.

Why Employers Ask This Question and What They Are Looking For

Unraveling the intent behind the classic interview question, ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’, reveals much about an employer’s priorities. It’s not just a query; it’s a strategic probe into your career ambitions and fit with the company’s future.

Here, employers are gauging your long-term vision, seeking signs of ambition, motivation, and dedication to career growth.

A well-crafted answer showcasing your alignment with the company’s values and objectives isn’t just informative—it’s a testament to your commitment and potential growth within the organization. Let’s dive into how a strategic response can significantly impact your career trajectory.

How To Answer ‘Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?’

Now that we grasp the reasons behind the question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” and what employers are seeking in your response, let’s delve into crafting a compelling answer. Follow these clear and direct steps to excel in your response:

• Be Honest and Realistic: When answering this question, be honest and realistic about your career goals and aspirations . Avoid being vague or unrealistic, as this can give the impression that you haven’t thought much about your future plans.
• Show Your Ambition: Employers seek ambitious and motivated candidates to grow within the company. Show your ambition by sharing your long-term career goals and how they align with the company’s mission and values.
• Highlight Your Skills: Take the opportunity to showcase your skills and how you plan to develop them further. This demonstrates your commitment to your career growth and potential value to the company.
• Be Flexible: While having a clear vision for your future is important, being flexible and adaptable is also essential. Show that you are open to new opportunities and challenges within the company and are willing to adjust your plans if necessary.

When answering this question, avoiding being vague or unrealistic is essential. For example, saying that you see yourself as the company’s CEO within five years may be unrealistic and may not align with the company’s needs. Instead, focus on realistic and achievable goals that demonstrate your ambition and commitment to your career growth within the company.

By following these simple steps, you can provide a thoughtful and strategic answer that impresses your interviewer and showcases your potential as a candidate.

Avoid Common Mistakes When Discussing Your 5-Year Vision

When answering the question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could send red flags to the hiring manager and hinder your chances of landing your dream job. Here are some tips on how to avoid these mistakes:

• Don’t be too vague: Avoid giving generic or unclear answers that don’t align with your career aspirations. For example, saying that you see yourself “growing with the company” may not demonstrate enough ambition or a clear plan for your long-term career goals.
• Don’t be too unrealistic: While showcasing your ambition and career growth aspirations is important, keeping them realistic is equally important. Saying that you want to be the company’s CEO within five years while starting at an entry-level position may come across as unrealistic.
• Don’t be too short-sighted: Employers are looking for candidates with a long-term vision for their career growth, not just short-term goals. Ensure your answer includes how you plan to develop your skills and progress in your career beyond the five-year mark.
• Don’t be too focused on the specific position: While showing enthusiasm for the role you’re interviewing for is excellent, showcasing your broader career goals and aspirations is vital. Don’t limit yourself to just one specific position within the company.
• Don’t give the same example answer as everyone else: Employers have repeatedly heard the same “example answers” to this common job interview question. It’s important to stand out by providing a unique and personalized response that showcases your strengths and aspirations.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can correctly answer the question “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” and increase your chances of receiving a job offer. It’s a great way to show your ambition and commitment to long-term career growth while demonstrating that you are a good fit for the company.

Now that you’ve learned what to avoid when answering ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’, let’s take it a step further. Below is a special video to visually guide you through the nuances of crafting an impactful answer. This video will illustrate, with real examples, how to articulate your 5-year vision effectively, ensuring you stand out in your interview. Get ready to transform your answer from good to exceptional, and confidently express your career aspirations.

10 Example Answers to “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

Dive into the heart of your next interview with our curated selection of ten sample answers to the pivotal question, ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’ This section is crafted to arm you with strategies that not only answer the question but also align your ambitions with the company’s vision.

From aspiring leaders to technical experts, each example is tailored to showcase different career paths and goals. Let’s enhance your interview preparation and ensure you leave a memorable impression, well-equipped to articulate your future plans with confidence.

Sample Answer 1: Career Growth

In five years, I see myself as an integral part of the company’s vision, contributing to its growth and success. As the company expands into new markets and adopts new technologies, I would love to take on more responsibilities and advance within my role . To achieve this, I plan to proactively seek out professional development opportunities and mentorship from senior team members. I also aim to leverage my skills and experience to support the company’s goals and work collaboratively with my colleagues towards achieving shared objectives.

The response reflects the candidate’s eagerness to advance their company career and unwavering dedication to growth. It exhibits a thorough understanding of the company’s objectives and reveals the candidate’s determination to succeed through proactivity. By prioritizing their professional progression and seeking opportunities to hone their skills, the candidate aligns with the qualities that employers look for in a driven and committed candidate.

Sample Answer 2: Leadership Development

In the next five years, I envision myself growing within the company by taking on new challenges and expanding my skill set. As I understand from my research, the company is expanding its market share and introducing new products to its portfolio. I would like to be a part of this growth and contribute to the success of the company by taking on leadership roles in these new projects. To achieve this, I plan to actively seek out opportunities to learn and develop my skills, take on new responsibilities, and work closely with senior leaders to gain mentorship and guidance. I believe that by growing my leadership skills and contributing to the company’s vision, I can make a meaningful impact and help drive the company’s success in the future.

This answer demonstrates the candidate’s ambition and commitment to developing their leadership skills, a highly valued trait by employers. It also shows that the candidate has a clear plan for achieving their goals and is willing to take proactive steps to develop their skills.

Sample Answer 3: Cross-Functional Experience

In the next five years, I see myself growing within the company by taking on new challenges and expanding my skillset. I am impressed with the company’s vision for innovation and growth, and I would love to be a part of that journey. Specifically, I am interested in learning more about [specific department or project] and how I can contribute to its success. I plan to seek out opportunities to collaborate with those teams and gain a deeper understanding of their operations. By doing so, I believe I can bring added value to the company and achieve my own professional goals.

This response highlights the candidate’s eagerness to enhance their knowledge and expertise beyond their current position, showcasing a valuable attribute for any employee. Moreover, it indicates that the candidate is proactive in their approach and actively seeks out avenues for progress and advancement within the organization.

Sample Answer 4: Contribution to Company Goals

I see myself growing with the company and taking on new challenges over the next five years. I am excited about the company’s focus on expanding into new markets and developing innovative products, and I would love to be a part of that vision. Specifically, I hope to take on leadership roles within my department and contribute to the company’s success through my skills and expertise. I plan to continually improve myself by seeking out opportunities for training and development and staying up-to-date with industry trends. Ultimately, my goal is to make a significant impact on the company’s growth and success while also advancing my own career.

This answer demonstrates the candidate’s commitment to the company’s goals and values, a highly valued trait by employers. It also shows that the candidate has a clear plan for achieving their goals and is willing to seek feedback and mentorship to ensure their success.

Sample Answer 5: Technical Expertise

In the next five years, I see myself growing within the company and becoming an integral part of its future. I am excited about the company’s vision to expand its digital offerings, and I would love to be a part of that growth. Specifically, I am passionate about developing my technical expertise and becoming a subject matter expert within my field. To achieve this goal, I plan to attend technical training or workshops, seek mentorship or guidance from technical experts within the company, and actively seek out challenging technical projects. My objective is to become a valuable resource for the company and a go-to person for technical questions or projects that contribute to the company’s growth and success.

The candidate’s response indicates a strong drive to improve their technical abilities , reflecting a desirable quality sought by employers. Additionally, the candidate’s clear and well-thought-out plan for skill development showcases their dedication to achieving their objectives and their proactive approach toward seeking opportunities for growth and advancement.

Sample Answer 6: Leadership and Management

I see myself taking on a leadership role within the company over the next five years and managing a team. I have been actively developing my leadership skills, and I believe that I will be ready to take on this responsibility in five years. I plan to continue to grow my skills by taking leadership courses and working closely with my current manager to learn as much as possible.

This answer demonstrates that the candidate has ambition and is committed to growing their skills within the company. It also shows that they have a specific career path in mind and are actively working towards achieving their goals.

Sample Answer 7: Industry Expertise

In five years, I see myself as a vital member of the team, contributing to the company’s growth and success. As I understand the company’s vision, it aims to expand into new markets and develop innovative products to stay ahead of the competition. I am excited about the opportunity to grow alongside the company and be part of this vision. I plan to take on challenging projects, seek out learning opportunities, and continuously improve my skills to contribute to the company’s progress. Additionally, I look forward to mentoring new team members and sharing my knowledge and expertise to contribute to the team’s overall success.

The candidate’s response shows a strong commitment to staying current with the latest industry trends and a drive to enhance their expertise. Moreover, it highlights their proactive attitude and willingness to take on new challenges to advance their objectives.

Sample Answer 8: Making an Impact

In five years, I envision myself as a key player in the company’s growth and success. As the company expands into new markets and takes on more complex projects, I would like to take on a leadership role in these endeavors. I am excited about the company’s focus on innovation and sustainability, and I hope to contribute to these initiatives by developing new strategies and implementing best practices. By seeking out mentorship opportunities and continuously improving my skills, I am confident that I can help the company achieve its long-term goals.

This answer shows that the candidate is focused on making a meaningful impact within the company and is committed to finding ways to contribute to the team’s success. It also demonstrates that they are eager to develop their skills and become a more valuable team member.

Sample Answer 9: Entrepreneurship

In five years, I see myself starting my own business within the industry. I plan to continue learning as much as possible while working at this company and develop a network of industry professionals who can support me when the time comes. I believe that my experience working here will be invaluable when starting my own business.

This answer demonstrates that the candidate is ambitious and has a long-term career plan in mind. It also shows they are committed to developing their skills and network while working at the company. They see their experience there as an asset to their future entrepreneurial endeavors.

Sample Answer 10: Company Loyalty

In five years, I see myself still working at this company and contributing to its growth and success. I plan to continue developing my skills and taking on new challenges as they arise. I believe that this company is the best place for me to achieve my career goals, and I am committed to its success.

The candidate’s response exemplifies their loyalty to the company and their intention to stay for the long haul. It also highlights their unwavering commitment to improving their skills and tackling fresh challenges to propel the company’s growth and prosperity further.

Actionable Tips for the 5-Year Vision Interview Question

When responding to the question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” in an interview, it’s beneficial to focus on one or two key areas that align closely with your career aspirations and the company’s objectives. This section offers actionable tips derived from various focus areas to help you articulate a clear and strategic vision. Tailoring your response by combining aspects of these tips can make your answer more impactful and aligned with your individual goals.

Enhance your understanding of ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’ another video guide. This visual complements the actionable tips provided, offering a dynamic way to understand how to effectively incorporate these strategies into your answer. The video will bring these tips to life, demonstrating how to blend your career aspirations with the company’s goals in a compelling and personalized way. Get ready to refine your response and make a memorable impact in your next interview.

More Frequently Asked Interview Questions

Preparing for an interview can be nerve-wracking, especially when unsure of what to expect. While every interview differs, hiring managers tend to ask several common questions. Knowing how to answer these questions can help you feel more confident and prepared for your interview. This section will review some of the most common interview questions, tips, and example answers to help you nail your next interview.

The best answer to "What is your long-term goal?" will vary depending on the individual and the specific job opportunity. However, a good answer should demonstrate ambition, a clear vision for the future, and alignment with the company's values and goals. Here is an example of a strong answer: "My long-term goal is to continue to grow and develop in my career while making meaningful contributions to the company. Specifically, I aim to take on increasingly challenging roles and responsibilities that allow me to leverage my skills and experience while also expanding my knowledge and expertise. I see myself as a valuable member of the team, working collaboratively with my colleagues to drive the company's success and achieve our shared goals."

One example answer to the question "Where do you see yourself in 10 years?" could be: "In 10 years, I see myself in a leadership role within the company, working closely with the executive team to drive business strategy and innovation. I hope to have developed a strong team of professionals who share my vision and commitment to excellence. Additionally, I plan to have pursued further education and training to expand my skills and knowledge, ultimately positioning myself as an expert in my field." This answer demonstrates ambition, strategic thinking, and a long-term commitment to the company's success. It also shows a willingness to invest in personal and professional growth, which is highly valued by employers. It's important to note that this answer should be tailored to the specific position and company you are interviewing for, showcasing how your long-term goals align with their needs and objectives.

One example answer to the question "What can you bring to the company?" could be: "One of my strengths is my ability to problem-solve and think creatively. In my previous job, I identified a bottleneck in the production process and developed a new strategy that increased efficiency by 30%. I believe this kind of innovative thinking can be applied to any company, and I am excited to bring it to your team." The answer provided showcases a clear understanding of the company's needs and a strong alignment with them. The candidate has also demonstrated how their skills and experience can benefit the company by providing a specific example.

A great example answer to "How do you handle stress and pressure?" would be: "I handle stress and pressure by prioritizing my tasks and breaking them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. I also make sure to take breaks and step away from my work when necessary to clear my mind and refocus. In my previous job, I had a deadline for a project, and there was a lot of pressure to finish it on time. I took the initiative to organize a meeting with my team to discuss our progress and delegate tasks effectively, which helped us meet our deadline without compromising the quality of our work." This answer demonstrates a proactive approach to stress and pressure, emphasizing problem-solving skills, time management, and teamwork. The candidate shows the ability to take charge of the situation and manage their workload effectively while maintaining high quality in their work. Providing a specific example also adds credibility to the candidate's answer, showing their ability to handle stressful situations in the past.

A great way to answer the question, "What can you contribute to the team?" is to provide specific examples of your skills, experiences, and accomplishments related to the job and the team's needs. "I believe my strong communication and collaboration skills, as well as my ability to think creatively and solve problems, would make a valuable contribution to the team. In my previous job, I collaborated with a team of designers and developers to create a new website for our client. My ability to communicate effectively and work well with others helped us meet our deadlines and deliver a high-quality product. I also came up with a creative solution to a technical problem that saved the project time and money. I am confident that I can bring these skills and experiences to this team and contribute to its success." This answer shows that the candidate has specific skills and experiences that are relevant to the job and the team's needs. The example also demonstrates the candidate's ability to work well with others, think creatively, and solve problems, all of which are valuable traits in a team environment. By providing a concrete example, the candidate shows that they have a track record of contributing to a team's success, which can give the hiring manager confidence in their ability to do the same in the new job.

Moving Up the Ladder: Using the “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?” Question to Your Advantage

Answering the question about where you see yourself in 5 years requires a certain amount of crystal ball-gazing. However, by considering your long-term personal goals and creating a five-year plan, you can position yourself for success over the long haul. Whether you’re aiming for a specific management position or simply looking to build your skills and experience as an entry-level employee, having a clear sense of your ultimate goal is a good idea.

At MatchBuilt executive search, we understand that the coming years may hold many opportunities and challenges for job seekers like you. That’s why we’ve provided ten sample answers to one of the most common interview questions, along with advice on how to craft the best response for your potential employers. By following our tips and tailoring your answer to the specific position you’re seeking, you’ll make a great first impression on new employees and increase your chances of landing the job.

About Mark Matyanowski

As the founder of MatchBuilt, with over 18 years of recruiting and coaching experience and 8+ years in executive roles at a leading Fortune 100 company, I am deeply committed to guiding professionals in their career paths.

Our team at MatchBuilt offers expert support in enhancing resumes, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, and preparing for interviews. Our blog, drawing on our rich experience and industry insights, is a valuable resource for job seekers.

We take pride in successfully guiding job candidates to top-tier company roles while empowering individuals to achieve their career ambitions, irrespective of their background or educational level.

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5 Year Plan Templates

40 useful 5 year plan templates (personal, career, business).

Planning is always a good thing as it can be a basis on what you want to accomplish not just on small projects but for long-term goals too. Making a 5-year plan template can help you know yourself better – what you want and what you aspire for. It’s a strategy that revolves around the goals you want to achieve in the future so you know where you want to be in five years and how you will get there.

Table of Contents

• 1 5 Year Plan Templates
• 2 What is the purpose of a 5 year plan?
• 3 Personal 5 Year Plan Templates
• 4 Why 5 years?
• 5 5 Year Business Plan Templates
• 6 The benefits of creating your own 5-year plan template
• 7 5 Year Career Plan Templates
• 8 How do you write a 5-year career plan?

What is the purpose of a 5 year plan?

We’ve often heard the question, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” If someone asks you this question on the spot, you might find yourself in a situation where you try to find an appropriate answer. Will you get promoted to a higher position? Will you still rent an apartment or will you already have your own home ? Do you know any specific answer to this important question?

Even if you do have answers, these probably aren’t clear. This makes all the difference if you make a 5-year plan template. Creating your own personal 5-year plan template, 5-year business plan template, 5-year career plan template, 5-year plan template for life or 5-year strategic plan template gives you an edge over those who don’t think about their future goals or plans.

• It allows you to make improvements in your life The idea of the plan is that you can improve the good things you have to make them better. A 5-year plan template for life removes distractions as it gives you an opportunity to dig deeper and identify what is important to you. Then you can scrap everything else that is not. The plan also gives you the chance take accountability for your own goals.
• It effectively improves your focus These characteristics of a 5-year strategic plan template makes it very effective. It is a game plan to help keep your “eyes-on-the-prize.” It gives you an overview of the next five years so it doesn’t look like a mystery or worse, exactly like the routine you have been a slave to for the past five years.
• It helps you grow A personal 5-year plan template is more than just a to-do list or a calendar events as these only focus on short-term goals. Five years is an adequate timespan that can reflect realistic and effective changes within yourself. It can also allow significant growth in your personal and professional life.

Personal 5 Year Plan Templates

Why 5 years?

A 5-year plan template gives you enough time to “lay down the tracks” that will help you reach the more important achievements and milestones you wish to accomplish without having to resort to procrastination. As you may surmise, it’s a lot easier to get distracted by short-term goals that may seem more urgent or offer a faster payoff.

If you want to take the more challenging road, then take one with a longer view. In choosing this, you need to use your creativity and have enough boldness to dedicate and envision yourself to the life that you aspire for. You need a comprehensive plan to make this life your reality.

As you mature and evolve, so will your plan as it helps you maintain focus on your long-term goals. The end game in using the plan is growth and progress. It should enable you to create the life that you want with laser-focus and aim, yet having enough flexibility to adjust to who you’re growing into as time progresses.

5 Year Business Plan Templates

The benefits of creating your own 5-year plan template

You can either create your own 5-year plan template or use one that’s readily available online. You can use this tool to provide insights into your own personality, values, ambition, and more. It can also help potential employers to determine whether or not a prospect employee fits well in a certain corporate culture or job environment.

More importantly, a 5 year career plan template or one aimed at your personal goals can help you assess your visions for the future. Here are the standard benefits to look forward to when you have this plan:

• It helps you learn more about yourself A 5-year plan isn’t supposed to be a strict activity schedule that you should adhere to for the next five years. It’s mostly about knowing more about yourself and having the ability to pinpoint who you are and who you want to be. Consider these questions: Who do you want to be in the future? What do you want to do? What should have you achieved? What do you want to see as you look into the future? The answers to these questions will be the basis of your plan. When making it, you will discover your ambitions, vision, and values of the future. The plan is where it all starts and where you discover who you really are.
• It helps you develop long-term goals After you have discovered the visions you have for the future and the ambitions that go with it, you can know determine the long-term goals you will need to bring you there. These goals help shape your vision of the future. Long-term goals form the basis in reaching the vision of the future that you have established in your process of self-discovery. These are the charts that serve as guides to your end goal one step at a time.

Make sure that the long-term goals you set are all realistic, attainable, and specific. You should also have the ability to measure them so you can use them as markers as to how you move forward. This plan figures out what you want exactly.

5 Year Career Plan Templates

How do you write a 5-year career plan?

Do you have a career goal in mind? Maybe you’re too apprehensive as making one is a daunting task. On the contrary, it isn’t that hard. Here are a few easy steps for making your 5 year career plan template:

• Think about your career goals and list them down The first thing you need to do is to make an assessment of your professional life and determine the things that you want to achieve. Consider where you want to be in the five year’s time. Write all the things that you know you’re good at and the things you enjoy doing. What part of your work gives you the most enjoyment? What parts do you have the greatest interest in? You can easily move forward in your career if you find a role that seems interesting or one that you find enjoyable.
• Make a list of your skills that can help you achieve your career goals You know the skills, experiences, and abilities that you currently possess. Make an assessment of these traits and whether or not they can help you achieve the career goals you’ve set. For instance, you have a great interest in becoming a graphic designer but there are some types of software you cannot use. This means you need training if you want to reach your goals. Be very honest with yourself regarding your current skills and the skills that you should learn in order to advance. You should have a plan on how to gain knowledge that will help you achieve your goals . When writing the plan, incorporate the training and education needed to develop the necessary skills for your advancement.
• Break your goals down into smaller, more achievable goals After gathering all the data for your 5-year plan template, you can now start writing down your plan. When looking at a 5-year plan in its entirety, it may seem to be out of reach. What you can do is break things down into simpler steps that are more achievable. This helps you see more clearly how much progress you’ve made and, in turn, keeps you motivated.
• Actively seek out opportunities Now that you’ve finished your plan, you can start searching for opportunities where you can gain experience. Generally, there are two ways you can do this: Look for opportunities within your company Don’t be afraid to talk to your employer about any skills that you want to learn or improve and find ways where you can gain relevant and specific experiences. Look for opportunities in other companies If you feel you are not receiving the support you require or the opportunities aren’t available to you, maybe it is time to search for other opportunities in different organizations.
• Keep going back to your 5-year plan If you want to succeed in achieving your goals, regularly review your progress. Sit down and review your plan to make sure that you’re on track in achieving both your minor goals and your 5-year goal. It can also be a time to make adjustments, especially if your career has taken you to unexpected places. If you feel you’re not making any progress on your intended goals, try finding out why. Do not hesitate to ask your colleagues and friends for feedback or arrange a meeting with your employer to find out what else you can do to work towards your long-term goals.

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Biden preparing to offer legal status to undocumented immigrants who have lived in U.S. for 10 years

By Camilo Montoya-Galvez

Updated on: June 17, 2024 / 8:51 PM EDT / CBS News

The Biden administration is making plans to announce one of the largest immigration relief programs in recent history,  developing a policy  that would offer legal status to hundreds of thousands of immigrants living in the country without proper documents, four people familiar with the plans told CBS News.

A program being developed by White House officials would offer work permits and deportation protections to unauthorized immigrants married to U.S. citizens, as long as they have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years, the sources said, requesting anonymity to talk about internal government plans.

The proposal, known as "Parole in Place," would also open up a pathway to permanent legal status and U.S. citizenship for some beneficiaries by removing an obstacle in U.S. law that prevents those who entered the U.S. illegally from obtaining green cards without leaving the country.

Another plan being prepared by the Biden administration would streamline the process for so-called DREAMers and other undocumented immigrants to request waivers that would make it easier for them to obtain temporary visas, such as H-1B visas for high-skilled workers, the sources said.

The proposal is set to be announced Tuesday, according to sources briefed on the White House's plans, when administration officials are preparing to host an event to celebrate the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which shields  roughly  530,000 undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children from deportation. 

Some Democratic lawmakers have already been invited to Tuesday's immigration event at the White House, three congressional officials told CBS News, requesting anonymity to share private invitations.

A White House official said no final decisions had been made. White House spokesperson Angelo Fernandez Hernandez previously said the administration is "committed to taking action to address our broken immigration system."

The "Parole in Place" plan would be the largest immigration program for unauthorized immigrants since DACA, a policy that former President Barack Obama announced in 2012 as a "stopgap" measure to protect DREAMers in light of congressional inaction on immigration.

The policy would benefit a subset of the estimated 1.1 million unauthorized immigrants with American citizen spouses, as long as they meet the residency requirement and other rules. Overall, there are approximately 11 million immigrants living in the U.S. unlawfully, according to the most recent government estimate .

The move would further underscore an increased willingness by President Biden to take executive actions on immigration ahead of the presidential election in November. Just last week, Mr. Biden invoked his executive authority to enact a partial ban on asylum claims at the southern border, a move that has already been challenged in federal court by the American Civil Liberties Union. 

Just like the border executive action, the "Parole in Place" program will likely face legal challenges, possibly from Republican-led states, which have filed multiple lawsuits against Mr. Biden's more generous immigration policies.

The program would almost certainly garner vocal opposition from Republican lawmakers, who have increasingly taken strong stances against "amnesty" for those living in the U.S. illegally.

"Biden's border is still in crisis and his latest idea is amnesty. This will invite more chaos," said Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma, the lead Republican negotiator of a border security deal brokered by the White House and a group of senators earlier this year.

Still, Mr. Biden has been arguing that he's acting unilaterally on immigration because Congress failed to pass that agreement, which was rejected by most Republican lawmakers. Political analysts also believe the "Parole in Place" policy could help Mr. Biden's chances of earning more support from Latino voters, especially those in mixed-status families that would benefit from the move.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the federal agency that oversees the legal immigration system, has administered a more limited "Parole in Place" program for military families for over a decade. The policy allows some undocumented immigrants who are immediate relatives of U.S. service members or veterans to obtain green cards, without having to leave the country.

• Biden Administration
• Immigration
• Undocumented Immigrants

Camilo Montoya-Galvez is the immigration reporter at CBS News. Based in Washington, he covers immigration policy and politics.

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Where Will Tellurian Be in 5 Years?

• Tellurian is building a fully permitted LNG export terminal known as Driftwood.
• Driftwood is currently scheduled to start exporting LNG in 2028.
• There's a lot that needs to happen at Tellurian between now and 2028.
• Motley Fool Issues Rare “All In” Buy Alert

NYSEMKT: TELL

If everything goes according to plan, Tellurian's Driftwood LNG export facility will be processing LNG in five years.

If you are looking at Tellurian ( TELL -1.66% ) , you have to pay very close attention to the energy sector specialist's construction plans. That's because its only real asset is the Driftwood liquified natural gas (LNG) export terminal. Well, it will be the only real asset once it is built and processing LNG in 2028. Which means that the next four to five years are going to be all about execution.

What's the opportunity for Tellurian?

According to Tellurian, LNG demand is expected to grow by more than 50% by 2035. That's a huge number, but the real problem is that global production isn't projected to keep up.

The shortfall is expected to be fairly large, but the really important aspect is that the U.S. is the largest exporter of LNG in the world. Tellurian is betting that the country ends up being a key player when it comes to solving the LNG production shortfall.

Image source: Getty Images.

The problem is that it is very difficult to move natural gas. The easiest way is via pipelines, but that requires the starting and ending points to be fairly close geographically.

If natural gas is to be moved long distances, such as over large bodies of water, it has to be cooled down until it becomes a liquid -- LNG. It can then be put onto a ship for transportation.

Turning natural gas into LNG requires large, specialized facilities. Which is exactly what Tellurian's Driftwood project is. The hope is that Driftwood comes on line as demand for LNG is increasing and the company can turn this project into a reliable cash generator.

Tellurian is only at the starting gate

So there's a good reason for Tellurian to build Driftwood. But that doesn't mean it will be easy to do. Large construction projects like this are complex, expensive, and time-consuming. A lot of things need to go right for them to work out. Tellurian looked like it wasn't doing so great on that front for a little while, and it recently brought in new leaders to right the ship.

A lot has changed in a short period of time. The most recent event was the company agreeing to the sale of some pipeline assets to Aethon Energy. The cash from this sale will be used to pay down debt, which will give Tellurian more leeway to pay for the rest of the construction. This is good news, but the company still needs to sign up its first customer. To that end, the company that is buying the pipeline assets has begun negotiating for a portion of Driftwood's LNG export capacity. Although Aethon hasn't inked a definitive deal, the interest is an important indication.

Right now, this is probably the big story that investors should be watching. If Tellurian can't find customers for Driftwood, it might not be worth building. But as soon as one customer signs on the dotted line, things could start to move more quickly.

Still a long way to go

Finding that first customer might be the next obvious step for Tellurian, but it is really just one of many things that have to happen to get Driftwood completed on time. The next four to five years are also going to include a huge amount of execution risk on the construction front.

This is not a stock for risk-averse investors, even if it signs a customer and the expected supply/demand dynamics fall into place. But if you do buy Tellurian, or even if you just keep watching the company, you should be waiting eagerly for that first customer. Once it has one lined up, the LNG export terminal's successful start-up in 2028 will begin looking like a far more certain outcome.

Reuben Gregg Brewer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .

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FACT SHEET: President   Biden Announces New Actions to Keep Families   Together

Since his first day in office, President Biden has called on Congress to secure our border and address our broken immigration system. As Congressional Republicans have continued to put partisan politics ahead of national security – twice voting against the toughest and fairest set of reforms in decades – the President and his Administration have taken actions to secure the border, including:

• Implementing executive actions to bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum when encounters are high;
• Deploying record numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the Southern border;
• Seizing record amounts of fentanyl at our ports of entry;
• Revoking the visas of CEOs and government officials outside the U.S. who profit from migrants coming to the U.S. unlawfully; and
• Expanding efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecuting individuals who violate immigration laws.

President Biden believes that securing the border is essential. He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, and that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country. The Day One immigration reform plan that the President sent to Congress reflects both the need for a secure border and protections for the long-term undocumented. While Congress has failed to act on these reforms, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to strengthen our lawful immigration system. In addition to vigorously defending the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals) policy, the Administration has extended Affordable Care Act coverage to DACA recipients and streamlined, expanded, and instituted new reunification programs so that families can stay together while they complete the immigration process.  Still, there is more that we can do to bring peace of mind and stability to Americans living in mixed-status families as well as young people educated in this country, including Dreamers. That is why today, President Biden announced new actions for people who have been here many years to keep American families together and allow more young people to contribute to our economy.   Keeping American Families Together

• Today, President Biden is announcing that the Department of Homeland Security will take action to ensure that U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children can keep their families together.
• This new process will help certain noncitizen spouses and children apply for lawful permanent residence – status that they are already eligible for – without leaving the country.
• These actions will promote family unity and strengthen our economy, providing a significant benefit to the country and helping U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members stay together.
• In order to be eligible, noncitizens must – as of June 17, 2024 – have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, while satisfying all applicable legal requirements. On average, those who are eligible for this process have resided in the U.S. for 23 years.
• Those who are approved after DHS’s case-by-case assessment of their application will be afforded a three-year period to apply for permanent residency. They will be allowed to remain with their families in the United States and be eligible for work authorization for up to three years. This will apply to all married couples who are eligible.  
• This action will protect approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens, and approximately 50,000 noncitizen children under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

Easing the Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates, Including Dreamers

• President Obama and then-Vice President Biden established the DACA policy to allow young people who were brought here as children to come out of the shadows and contribute to our country in significant ways. Twelve years later, DACA recipients who started as high school and college students are now building successful careers and establishing families of their own.
• Today’s announcement will allow individuals, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, who have earned a degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education in the United States, and who have received an offer of employment from a U.S. employer in a field related to their degree, to more quickly receive work visas.
• Recognizing that it is in our national interest to ensure that individuals who are educated in the U.S. are able to use their skills and education to benefit our country, the Administration is taking action to facilitate the employment visa process for those who have graduated from college and have a high-skilled job offer, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers. 

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Biden is offering some migrants a pathway to citizenship. Here’s how the plan will work

President Joe Biden is taking an expansive election year step to offer relief to potentially hundreds of thousands of immigrants without legal status in the U.S.

President Joe Biden has ordered an expansive election-year step to offer relief to potentially hundreds of thousands of immigrants who don’t have legal status in the U.S. but are married to American citizens.

President Joe Biden speaks during an event marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals program, in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

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Javier Quiroz Castro gives a hug to President Joe Biden at an event marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals program, in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP) — A new Biden administration policy announced Tuesday will give roughly half a million immigrants who are married to American citizens but lack legal status in the United States a pathway to citizenship for them and their children.

It is one of President Joe Biden’s most sweeping immigration policies and one that migrant advocates had been heavily lobbying the administration to undertake.

A look at the new policy, who might benefit and how:

How did things work before?

Under U.S. immigration law, if an American marries someone who is not a citizen but is living in the United States, it can be a straightforward process for the spouse to apply for long-term permanent residence — called a green card.

But if the spouse has been living in the United States illegally for a long time, that process gets much more complicated.

They often have to leave and apply from their home country. Depending on how long the person has lived in the U.S. without authorization, they could have to stay abroad for three to 10 years before applying to come back. They can seek a waiver to avoid waiting that long abroad, but getting a waiver also is averaging about three and a half years.

They have to go abroad, apply at a consulate — where waits can be extensive — and be permitted back into the U.S.

“There is the risk of prolonged separation especially if things go wrong,” said Elizabeth Taufa, policy attorney and strategist for the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.

Facing the prospect of leaving their families in America for a lengthy process that might not work, many decide to stay and live in the shadows.

How is Biden changing immigration policy?

Under the new policy, many spouses without legal status can now apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the U.S. and eventually get a path to citizenship. But it’s not a blanket approval.

To be eligible, people have to have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years, not pose a security threat and have been married by June 17, 2024. They would have to apply to the Department of Homeland Security, which considers the applications on a case-by-case basis, the department wrote in a fact sheet describing the new policy. Immigrant spouses cannot have already been admitted or paroled into the country previously.

Applicants will be vetted for previous immigration history, criminal history and more, including potential fraud, Biden’s announcement said.

Once Homeland Security approves an application, the White House said, the person would then have three years to apply for permanent residency and could get work authorization for up to three years.

About 1.1 million immigrants without legal status are married to American citizens in the United States, according to immigration advocacy organization FWD.us. The administration thinks that ultimately about half that number — about 500,000 — could be eligible for this program, plus about 50,000 of their children.

On average, the spouses have lived in the United States for a little over two decades, the White House said. A senior administration official said during a call to brief reporters that they expect the majority of people benefitting from the program will be from Mexico.

How does this fit in with Biden’s other immigration policies?

The Biden administration has pursued a two-pronged strategy on immigration and border security over the past year and a half.

On one hand, Biden has made it much more difficult to qualify for asylum at the southern border and intensified removals of those who don’t qualify to stay. Immigration advocates vilified Biden’s decision this month to cut off asylum processing after arrivals on the southern border hit a certain number per day.

On the other hand, the administration has taken a number of steps to admit people into the country.

In the biggest example, the administration created a program last year allowing people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela to come to the U.S. if they have a financial sponsor, pass a background check and fly into a U.S. airport. As of the end of April, 434,800 people have arrived through that program from those four countries.

Many advocates have pushed the administration to do more for immigrants who have lived in the U.S. illegally for decades.

What’s changing in the program for ‘Dreamers’?

Separate from the policy for migrant spouses, the administration also announced changes designed to help those in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program qualify more easily for long-established work visas.

The Obama administration in 2012 offered people who were brought illegally to the U.S. by their parents as children deportation protections and temporary work permits. Many of them, often known as “Dreamers,” are now parents themselves.

Many companies who employ DACA recipients can apply for them to get a work visa, which is more stable and provides a pathway to permanent residence, said Dan Berger, an immigration fellow at Cornell Law School who co-founded Path2Papers , an organization that helps dreamers pursue work visas and other ways to get legal permanent residency.

But to get the work visa, the DACA recipient must travel abroad, apply and get a waiver to reenter the U.S. Berger said that waiver process is very slow and offers little guidance, so employers and DACA recipients aren’t eager to try it.

“Having clear guidance and clear expectation is really helpful,” he said.

What’s next?

The Department of Homeland Security has to produce guidance on how the spousal program will work. The program will go into effect by the end of summer, President Joe Biden said during a ceremony Tuesday.

It will fall to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, an agency within the Department of Homeland Security, to process all the applications. That agency has historically struggled with funding as it works to reduce backlogs and wait times .

Republicans and immigration opponents have intensely criticized the proposal, and opponents are almost certain to sue in an attempt to stop it.

Biden announces new policy shielding undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation

President Joe Biden is taking executive action to protect undocumented spouses of American citizens — a move that would shield about 500,000 immigrants from deportation.

The White House announced the election-year policy Tuesday, framing it as “new action to keep families together.” NBC News reported last week that action protecting the spouses was likely to be announced soon, after urging from immigration advocates and Democratic lawmakers and as the president courts Latino voters in crucial battleground states.

The new policy would allow noncitizens who have been in the country for at least 10 years and are married to a U.S. citizen, and their children, to apply for permanent residence without leaving the country.

During a ceremony at the White House, Biden called the steps a "commonsense fix" to a system that is "cumbersome, risky and separates families."

He said the order would go into effect this summer and stressed that it would not benefit people who recently came into the country. Instead, it would help people who are "paying taxes and contributing to our country" and their family members.

“This is the biggest thing since DACA,” said a source familiar with the matter, an immigration advocate.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, announced by then-President Barack Obama in 2012, allowed immigrants who illegally came to the U.S. as children to stay in the country.

Foreshadowing the likely battles to come over the policy, the White House was keen to stress that it has been tough on unlawful border crossings and has worked to dismantle people-smuggling networks.

The president "believes that securing the border is essential," it said in a news release Tuesday outlining the new action.

"He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, and that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country," the statement said.

The statement added that the spouses eligible to apply for this have been in the U.S. for 23 years on average.

The program would also make it easier for some undocumented immigrants to get a green card and a path to U.S. citizenship.

Sources also say that the undocumented spouses would be allowed to obtain work permits on a case-by-case basis.

The action includes plans to allow DACA recipients who earned degrees in higher education and are seeking a job in that same field to more quickly receive work visas.

Republicans, including former President Donald Trump , blasted the executive action.

Speaking at a campaign rally in Wisconsin, Trump said that if he's elected in November, Biden’s new immigration policy would be immediately “ripped up and thrown out.”

"It's been a nonstop catastrophe, but one of crooked Joe's most destructive moves yet is the lawless executive action he's taken today," Trump said. "Under this program, a deluge of illegals will be given immediate green cards and put on the fast track to rapid citizenship so they can vote."

The presumptive Republican nominee for president, who has made immigration and border issues a cornerstone of his campaign, said "millions" of immigrants would benefit from the program, a figure that contrasts with a White House estimate that it would impact roughly 500,000 people who are spouses and 50,000 non-citizen children who are under 21 with a non-citizen parent who married an American before they were 18 who may also qualify.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., also ripped the administration's announcement, painting it as "granting amnesty to hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens" and saying it would "incentivize more illegal immigration and endanger Americans."

The new program is expected to be challenged in court.

Noting the likelihood of lawsuits, Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, D-Ill., who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in a statement that passing legislation would be "the only action that will fully allow these deserving individuals to put down roots, start families, further their education, and continue contributing to our society without fear of deportation." But he also acknowledged that getting a bill through Congress would be unlikely given Republican opposition to previous immigration overhauls.

Gabe Gutierrez is a senior White House correspondent for NBC News.

Julie Tsirkin is a correspondent covering Capitol Hill.

Julia Ainsley is the homeland security correspondent for NBC News and covers the Department of Homeland Security for the NBC News Investigative Unit.