The majority of clients I work with want to achieve more from their career and their life in general. This can include financial securities, increased responsibilities, feeling challenged, increase in knowledge and skills,  better work/life balance, and to feel fulfilled by theirwork. Ultimately people want to feel confident they are in control of their life and career future direction.  The following 10 steps will get you into practice of writing your own personal development plan, helping you move closer towards your life and in particular career goals.

1. Make a list of your current responsibilities, tasks, skills and achievements.

1. Consider 5 years into the future; what do you want your career and life to look like? Paint yourself a picture of what it looks like, for example what happens in your typical day? Notice how you feel when you think about your future career and life, as you go about your day to day business? Finally add sound, what are you saying to yourself?

1. Now you have visualised your future career, write your goal in positive terms, e.g. I will have a successful career as a new product marketing manager working in the pharmaceutical industry by June 2013.

1.  Now reflect on your list of responsibilities and tasks. Consider which ones are helping or hindering you from moving closer to your career and life goals?

1. Identify and make a note of the gaps you may have in your knowledge and experiences.

1. What actions can you take to bridge those gaps identified. E.g. seek out a new project which will stretch my skills, research additional courses or professional memberships.  These will demonstrate your commitment and expertise in your chosen fields to future employers.

1. Spend an hour each month to consider your 5 year career goal. and consider if this goal is still right for you? If this goal is still right for you, ask yourself if you have made sufficient progress since the last appointment and plan your next actions for the coming month. If it is no longer relevant or you need to adjust it, return to step 2.

1. Factor in rewards each month when you are making.

1. Communicate your career aspirations to your manager and highlight any actions or requests that the company might be willing to support you with. This support can come in many forms, including training and payment towards courses or involvement in relevant tasks and projects.

1. Remember you have control over your future. The decisions and actions you make today shape your whole future. 

For more personal support on how to proactively and positively manage your career, contact me for a free burst of coaching

emmawhite@lifes-abreeze.co.uk