Describe a long-term goal you would like to achieve

Hello and welcome back to IELTS TIME. In this podcast, we explore IELTS Speaking topics and show you how to answer them naturally and effectively. I’m your host, and today we’re focusing on a cue card: Describe a long-term goal you would like to achieve. You should say: what the goal is, how long you have had this goal, how you would achieve it, and explain why you set this goal.

We’ll hear two sample answers — one from Joseph, who talks about financial independence, and one from Blondie, who shares her journey toward buying her own apartment. After each response, I’ll break it down for you, highlight useful vocabulary, and give you practical tips you can apply in your own answers.

Let’s start with Joseph.

One of my biggest long-term goals is to build a stable career that allows me to be financially independent. I’ve had this goal since I finished high school, because I realized pretty early on that relying on parents or family support isn’t something I want to do forever.

I think I’ve carried this ambition for around four or five years now, and it has definitely shaped the choices I’ve made, like what I decided to study and the part-time jobs I’ve taken. To achieve it, I plan to keep building practical skills that employers actually value — things like communication, problem-solving, and even some technical skills in my field. I also want to gain work experience step by step, starting with internships, and eventually moving into a full-time role that feels both stable and meaningful.

The reason I set this goal is quite simple: financial independence gives you freedom. I don’t want to feel like a burden on my family, and I also want the freedom to make my own decisions in life, whether that’s traveling, investing in something I care about, or even supporting my loved ones in the future. For me, achieving this goal would mean not just earning money, but reaching a point where I feel confident, secure, and capable of standing on my own two feet.

That was Joseph, and his answer is an excellent example of how to handle this cue card clearly.

First, notice how he covered all parts of the question:

• He explained what his goal is — building a stable career and becoming financially independent.
• He shared how long he’s had it — since finishing high school.
• He described his plan — developing practical skills, taking internships, and working step by step.
• And finally, he explained why — because it represents freedom and responsibility.

This structure makes his answer easy to follow, and that’s exactly what you should aim for in the exam.

Second, let’s look at vocabulary. Useful phrases here include financially independent, practical skills, stable career, meaningful role, secure. These are precise, natural words that you can borrow for your own answers.

Also, pay attention to his grammar. Joseph moved smoothly between past tense (when the goal began), present tense (what he’s doing now), and future tense (what he plans to do). That variety helps you show flexibility.

Finally, notice the tone. He didn’t just state the goal — he explained what it means to him. That personal reflection makes the answer sound more authentic.

So what can you take away from Joseph’s response? Keep your answer structured, include realistic details, and explain your motivation. That combination makes a strong impression.

Now, let’s listen to Blondie. Her long-term goal is very different — she talks about buying her own apartment. Pay attention to the way she makes her story vivid and memorable.

A long-term goal I’ve been working towards for quite some time is buying my own apartment. For me, it’s not just about owning a place; it’s really about having a sense of stability and independence. I’m not dreaming of something extravagant, but more of a cozy two-bedroom flat in a quiet neighborhood.

This goal first started to take shape when I was a teenager, but it became much more concrete after I moved out of my family home and began renting. Dealing with expiring leases and unpredictable landlords made me realize just how valuable it is to have a place that’s truly your own.

To achieve this, I’m relying on financial discipline. I’ve set up a savings plan where a fixed percentage of my salary automatically goes into a separate account. I’m also exploring ways to increase my income, whether that’s aiming for a promotion or taking on a side hustle. On top of that, I’ve been educating myself about the housing market and mortgage options, so when the time comes, I’ll be well-prepared.

I set this goal because I see it as a major milestone in life. Owning a place would give me security and peace of mind, but also the creative freedom to design and decorate a space without asking for permission. In a way, it’s not just a financial investment — it’s about creating a sanctuary and a foundation for my future.

That was Blondie, and her answer shows another great approach to this cue card.

What makes her response stand out? First, the imagery. She didn’t just say she wants to buy a home — she described it as a cozy two-bedroom flat in a quiet neighborhood. That kind of description makes her answer easy to picture and keeps the listener engaged.

Second, the timeline was very clear. She explained how the goal started in her teenage years, then became more serious after renting and dealing with unstable leases. This shows how to connect your past experiences to your current ambitions.

Third, her action plan was detailed. She mentioned a savings plan, side hustles, and learning about mortgage options. This level of specificity makes her answer sound realistic and well thought out.

Now let’s highlight vocabulary: financial discipline, mortgage options, creative freedom, stability, sanctuary. These are excellent words to show range, and they also help express deeper ideas — like turning a flat into a sanctuary.

Finally, Blondie’s motivation felt very personal. She linked her goal not only to financial security, but also to independence and the freedom to design her own space. That emotional layer makes her answer feel genuine.

So what can you take away from Blondie? Add detail, use descriptive language, and make sure you explain not just what your goal is, but also what it represents for you. That’s what makes an answer powerful.

Today, we heard two different but equally strong responses to the cue card Describe a long-term goal you would like to achieve.

Joseph focused on career and financial independence, showing clear structure and maturity. Blondie talked about buying her own apartment, using vivid description and personal motivation.

Both answers worked because they were structured, detailed, and personal. That’s the key: don’t just list facts — connect them to your own story.

That’s all for today’s episode of IELTS TIME. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next time with another IELTS Speaking topic. Until then, keep practicing, and keep speaking with confidence.