A goal is an endpoint toward which efforts are directed. There are many different types of goals, such as personal, career-related and relationship goals, all of which may be short-term or long-term in nature. Clear, well-defined goals are important for providing motivation and helping determine which steps to take in order to reach a given destination. Understanding the purpose and benefits of personal and relationship goals can help you gain the most benefit from each.
Types
Personal goals are those that involve one individual. Examples of personal goals include overcoming fears and obstacles, emotional development and reaching milestones involving career, finances and other life aspects.
Relationship goals affect both partners in a relationship and are set with the intention of bettering the dynamic between two people. Conflict resolution, improved communication and a healthier sex life are examples of common relationship goals. Unlike personal goals, relationship goals require the understanding and cooperation of both partners to succeed.
Characteristics
Personal goals are defined by one person who is solely responsible for the success or failure of the venture. The outcomes primarily affect the individual, but may have secondary effects on the relationship due to their emotional, financial or social impact.
Relationship goals differ in that both parties play a role in goal-setting and meeting the agreed upon objectives. While relationship goals may affect each partner on an individual level, they are generally set with the intention of improving or changing the shared dynamic between both parties.
Benefits
Both relationship and personal goals can have a positive impact on achievement and fulfillment. According to the Journal of Vocational Behavior, employees with specific career advancement goals at the outset of a new job generally obtain a higher salary and status than those without clear-cut objectives.
Similarly, shared goals may improve relationships by giving couples a concrete objective to work toward, thereby fostering teamwork and cooperation. Like personal goals, relationship goals can provide motivation and direction in helping couples obtain specific objectives.
Considerations
The intention upon which relationship goals are based can greatly affect their impact on a couple. According to Harvard University, approach goals---those aimed at positive outcomes such as increased communication or excitement---result in improved relationship satisfaction, while avoidance goals, or those that focus on avoiding negative situations such as jealousy and conflict, often lead to diminished satisfaction over time. Incorporating positive behaviors such as forgiveness and gratitude into relationships is also associated with better long-term outcomes.
Time Frame
When setting personal or relationship goals, you may find it helpful to separate them into categories based on the time it will take to achieve them. Distinguishing between short-term and long-term goals provides additional clarity and can help determine the order in which to complete specific steps in the process.
Short-term goals are those with more immediate results. In many cases, short-term goals can be used to achieve bigger, more difficult objectives in the future. Short-term goals usually span a day to a few months, while long-term goals are often measured in years or decades.
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