7 Steps to develop a Personal Development Plan
A good PDP provides focus; it helps you map out a path towards your version of success. A clear plan is also beneficial for your mental health as a sense of purposefulness can often help reduce stress and anxiety.
Set Goals
Search for the things you really want in life, these are your long-term goals. Once you’ve figured out what you want to do, that dream acts an emotional anchor; it provides stability and structure.
2. Prioritize Your Goals
Consider all the little steps that will help you achieve your big goals. And you’ll need to prioritise these short-term goals. Remember that you can’t do everything at once and trying to will lead to failure.
3. Set Deadlines
Realism factors are vital because they prevent you from becoming discouraged when you do hit pitfalls, they also help you learn more about the things you want to achieve, and can help you predict future problems and plan how to avoid them!
4. Recognize Threats and Opportunities
If you let them, threats will prevent you from achieving your goals or delay you on your way. Being aware will help you avoid these pitfalls. Also, be aware and lean into the things that will help you along the way!
5. Develop Yourself
Once you have an idea of what could hinder you and what could help you, this is when you can capitalise on those opportunities you recognised. Make an action plan about how you’ll make that progress.
6. Use Your Support Network
In your PDP, list the people who can help you. This could be a financial advisor, a friend, a colleague. People are often so happy to help you, more than you might realize.
7. Measure Progress
Whether it’s big or small, after you’ve achieved some progress take time to reflect on how far you’ve come. Recognizing what has gone well is a way to bolster your motivation and remain dedicated.
To Summarize
Whatever your goals may be, a PDP can help you get there. It allows you to measure your success and clearly navigate your path. Not to say there won’t be challenges, but having a roadmap will give you the confidence to deal with whatever life throws your way.
