Medium term personal development plan
Try using our sample personal development plan to help you create your own Personal Development Plan.
A personal development plan can be used for many different situations depending on you; so it does not have to be complicated or cause you concern. What it should do is give you a clear idea and method of achieving your goals. So in order to put together an effective Personal Development Plan, you should think about these three questions:
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Where am I now?
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Where do I want to be?
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How can I get there?
These three questions will address the important phases of your progress; your short term, medium term and long term goals.
Let us look at these three questions and see how to make a successful Personal Development Plan.
1.Where am I now?
Before you start your action plan you may find it helpful to consider the following questions in order to determine your current situation:
- What am I good at?
- What do I need to work on?
- What could help me along?
- What might stop me?
Use the following example and then repeat the task to reflect your own circumstances.
| Box 1
What am I good at? |
Box 2
What do I need to work on? |
| Excellent verbal and
Organising projects and events Advanced IT skills |
Completing paperwork
Time management Taking on extra tasks |
| Box 3
What could help me along? |
Box 4
What might stop me? |
| Attending a leadership course
Conducting 1-2-1 interviews Setting deadlines for tasks |
Lack of Time
Lack of money Fear of change |
The above sample personal development plan could apply to someone wanting to improve their employment prospects by concentrating on occupational skills (see box 1) rather than educational courses (see box 2). This exercise could be used to identify that work-based learning would be an appropriate answer as it involves gathering evidence and knowledge that can be gained on a day-today basis in a work situation (see box 3). The above sample personal development plan identifies possible barriers that need to be addressed and reviewed regularly (see box 4).
2.Where do I want to be?
This question is probably the most significant one and at the same time the one that needs the most consideration. As you are the one who can answer this question, you need to be aware there are many things to consider in helping you to find the solution. Asking yourself questions is a good way to initiate relevant ideas (e.g.):
What do I enjoy doing?
(In my job, as a hobby….)
What is my aim?
(Promotion, Personal development, Gaining a qualification)
What skills, experience and/or qualifications do I have?
(Some of these may be transferable.)
How long will it take me to complete my goal?
Be realistic.)
Are there any impending changes to my lifestyle?
(New Job Role, Marriage, Children….)
What is my ultimate goal?
(A qualification, personal satisfaction, career development.)
How will I measure my success?
(Recognised qualifications, personal goals…..)
Is there anyone who can offer me help and advice?
