In short: A financial goal is a specific amount you want to save or pay off by a set date — how much, by when, and how much per week or month.
Simply put: A goal without a deadline is a dream; a goal with one is a plan. The order of goals: first a reserve, then paying off expensive debt, then big purchases (home, education, car) and finally freedom — money that gives you choices. Breaking a goal into small weekly steps helps: small wins motivate. If the monthly amount is too big, change the deadline, not your life.
Example: You want something for €30 and put aside €3 a week — you reach the goal in 10 weeks. For €2,400 in 12 months you need €200 a month.
Watch out: Myth: "I will get organised when I earn more." Rhythm is a habit, and habits are built on small amounts.
Source: Gal & McShane, Journal of Marketing Research, 2012 — https://doi.org/10.1509/jmr.11.0272