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.
Short term plans typically last anywhere from 30 days to 12 months. If you get a plan that ends during open enrollment, some insurers can roll you over into a plan that counts as minimum essential coverage during open enrollment. Make sure that the end of short term coverage coincides with the start of a new plan.