Professional Goal Setting

Reflect and Plan for the Future

Now that you’ve engaged in various reflective activities and explored your learning journey from a range of perspectives, you might want to consider your plans for the future. This activity invites you to reflect on what you’ve discovered about yourself as a learner and professional, and use these insights to set meaningful goals for the next one to two years.

This activity will help you:

• Synthesise what you’ve learned from previous reflections.

• Identify areas for growth, development, or change.

• Set clear, actionable professional goals aligned with your values and aspirations.

Find a quiet space where you can think deeply and take your time. Use a journal, notebook, or word document to complete the prompts below.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Learning Journey

Begin by reviewing the reflections and activities you’ve completed using this toolkit. Consider the key themes and insights that emerged.

Prompts:

1. What patterns or recurring themes do you notice in your reflections?

   • Are there particular strengths or qualities that stand out?

   • Do you see areas where you consistently faced challenges or opportunities for growth?

2. What surprised you most about your reflections?

   • Did you discover something new about yourself, your values, or your learning style?

3. How have your perceptions of yourself as a learner and professional evolved?

   • Reflect on how your self-awareness has changed.

4. What are you most proud of from your learning journey so far?

   • Identify achievements, skills, or qualities that you want to celebrate.

Step 2: Identify Your Priorities for the Future

Use your reflections to think about where you want to go next. Focus on what feels most important to your professional and personal development in the next year or two.

Prompts:

1. What areas of your practice or professional skills would you like to develop further?

   • Are there specific competencies you’d like to strengthen or new skills you’d like to acquire?

2. What kind of challenges or opportunities would you like to pursue?

   • Are there leadership roles, specialised projects, or other responsibilities you feel ready to take on?

3. How can you build on your existing strengths?

   • Think about how your unique qualities or skills can be leveraged for future success.

4. What values or principles will guide your goals?

   • Reflect on what matters most to you in your professional life.

Step 3: Set SMART Professional Goals

Translate your priorities into actionable goals using the SMART framework. Each goal should be:

• Specific: Clear and focused.

• Measurable: Include criteria to track your progress.

• Achievable: Realistic given your current circumstances.

• Relevant: Aligned with your aspirations and values.

• Time-bound: Include a timeframe for completion.

Examples:

• Develop my leadership skills by leading a team project within the next six months.

• Complete a specialised training course in trauma-informed practice by the end of next year.

• Increase my confidence in public speaking by presenting at three team meetings over the next year.

Prompts:

1. Write down 2–3 SMART goals that you feel excited and motivated to pursue.

2. For each goal, identify the first step you need to take to get started.

3. Consider potential challenges and how you might overcome them.

Step 4: Create a Plan of Action

Once you’ve identified your goals, outline a plan to achieve them. Break each goal into smaller steps, and think about the resources, support, or learning you’ll need.

Prompts:

1. What actions will you take in the next month to move toward your goals?

2. Who can support you in achieving these goals?

   • Consider mentors, colleagues, or professional networks.

3. How will you track your progress?

   • Will you schedule regular check-ins with yourself or someone else?

Step 5: Commit to Reflection and Growth

To maintain momentum, commit to regular reflection on your progress. Revisit your goals periodically to celebrate achievements, adjust plans, and identify new opportunities for growth.

Prompts:

1. How often will you review your goals?

   • Set a specific frequency for reflection (e.g., monthly, quarterly).

2. What strategies will you use to stay motivated?

   • Consider using reminders, journaling, or sharing your goals with someone you trust.

3. How will you celebrate your successes?

   • Think of meaningful ways to acknowledge and reward your progress.

Closing Thoughts
This activity is both a conclusion to your current reflections and a starting point for your next chapter. By engaging in this process, you are taking ownership of your professional development and committing to your growth as a learner and practitioner.

Remember, your goals are a guide, not a rigid path. Stay open to change, seize new opportunities, and continue reflecting as you move forward. Your journey is unique, and this plan is your map for the road ahead.