6 Steps to Craft an Action Plan from Self Discovery

Happy New Year! January, like clear winter’s day, is a fresh start and an exciting opportunity to declare your intentions for the year ahead. If you have taken the self-assessments recommended in our December blog, you are already armed with insights that can guide your path forward. If you have not, here is the link to our December blog! Now is the time to convert that self-awareness into a concrete action plan that jump-starts growth and encourages success.

Step 1: Review Your Assessments

Start by reviewing the results of your self-assessments. What did you learn about your leadership style, emotional intelligence, and creative type? Identify your strengths as well as areas for improvement. Keep these findings in front of you; they are the foundation of your action plan.

Step 2: Set Clear Goals

With your assessment results in mind, set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-sensitive (SMART) goals. For instance, if your leadership style is more democratic, you might set a goal to improve decision-making speed without sacrificing team consensus.

Step 3: Identify Opportunities and Resources

Look for opportunities that align with your goals. If you want to learn more about your emotional intelligence, seek out workshops or webinars that focus on communication and empathy. Leverage free online resources to build on your strengths and address your growth areas.

Step 4: Create a Timeline

Determine when you will engage in each learning opportunity and set deadlines for yourself. A timeline keeps you accountable and helps ensure that your goals don’t fall by the wayside as the year progresses.

Step 5: Engage with Your Community

Share your goals with a mentor or colleague. Engaging with your professional community can provide support, keep you motivated, and open doors to new learning experiences.

Step 6: Reflect and Adjust

Regularly reflect on your progress. What’s working? What isn’t? Be prepared to adjust your action plan as needed. Remember, flexibility is key to overcoming challenges and seizing unexpected opportunities.

Embracing the Journey

As you embark on this year’s journey, remember that personal and professional development is a continuous process. Celebrate each milestone, learn from each setback, and remain committed to your growth. Here is to a year of learning, achievement, and success!