What is the Difference Between a Music Goal and a Music Target?

There is a subtle difference between a music goal and a music target, though they are closely related and often overlap. Let me show you how they differ:

Music Goal

A goal is broader and focuses on the outcome you want to achieve. It’s the bigger picture or long-term aspiration in your musical journey.

  • Example: “I want to play lead guitar in a band.”

  • Goals often provide a sense of direction and purpose.

Music Target

A target is more specific and measurable, focusing on the steps or milestones that help you achieve the bigger goal. Targets are often short-term and concrete.

  • Example: “Practice scales for 20 minutes every day to improve lead guitar skills.”

  • Targets are actionable and help you track your progress.

How They Work Together

Think of a goal as the destination and targets as the roadmap to get there.
For instance:

  • Goal: “Become a better songwriter.”

  • Targets:

    1. Write one new song every month.

    2. Study songwriting techniques for 30 minutes daily.

    3. Analyze lyrics from 10 favorite songs by the end of the month.

In short,

a music goal is what you dream of achieving, and a music target is the actionable step-by-step path to make that dream a reality. Both are essential to staying focused and making real progress in your musical journey