Different people and cultures believe different things for the answer to this question. The meaning of life as we perceive it is derived from philosophical and religious contemplation of, and scientific inquiries about existence, social ties, consciousness, and happiness.
A long-term financial plan should include these elements. Time Horizon. A plan should look at least  five to ten years into the future. Scope. A plan should consider all appropriated funds, but especially those funds that are used to account for the issues of top concern to elected officials and the community. Frequency.
Long-Term Financial Plan. An investment plan or strategy with a term of usually longer than one year. A long-term financial plan involves more uncertainty than anything short-term because, typically, market trends are more easily predictable in the short term. On the other hand, planning for the long-term is necessary in order to enjoy financial security in retirement. Thus, while planning for the long term is necessary, one's plan must be flexible to account for the uncertainty inherent to it.