[Glossary](https://pecuvo.eu/en/glossary/) · Budgeting and saving # Financial goal **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 ## In depth in the modules - [Module 9](https://pecuvo.eu/en/modules/managing-cash-flow/) - [Module 8](https://pecuvo.eu/en/modules/the-iron-principles-of-cash-flow/) - [Module 11](https://pecuvo.eu/en/modules/flow-5-projects-and-public-funds/) ## Related terms - [Saving](https://pecuvo.eu/en/glossary/saving/) - [Personal budget](https://pecuvo.eu/en/glossary/personal-budget/) - [Emergency fund](https://pecuvo.eu/en/glossary/emergency-fund/) - [Regular saving (monthly contributions)](https://pecuvo.eu/en/glossary/regular-saving/) - [Delayed gratification](https://pecuvo.eu/en/glossary/delayed-gratification/)