Creating a personal growth plan is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It will help you become more aware of your goals and how to achieve them. Having a personal growth plan also allows you to track your progress and see how far you've come.
Here are some tips on how to create a personal growth plan:
1. Define your goals. What do you want to achieve? Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (otherwise known as SMART goals). Here's a fun example:
Specific: Going back to school to become an Art Therapist
Measurable: Small milestones for this goal include- (1) Researching different colleges that offer a Masters program in Art Therapy, (2) Learning about the requirements to apply/join a Masters program, (3) Signing up for the necessary prerequisite classes to be able to apply for a Masters program in Art Therapy, (4) Completing and passing those classes, (5) Preparing for the Masters program application process, (6) Sending in the final application and hoping for the best!
Achievable: The deadline to apply for the Fall 2023 Art Therapy program is April 1, 2023. Is this goal achievable within the time-frame I've set for myself? (The answer should hopefully be yes, but reevaluate as you hit each milestone)
Relevant: Does this goal align with my values and long-term objectives? Yes!
Time-Bound: My goal is to complete the 2.5 year MA in Art Therapy/Counseling program and become a licensed art therapist by 2026.
2. Identify your current situation. Take a look at where you are right now in relation to your goals. This will help you create a plan of action. Are you doing daily activities that align with your personal growth plan? Identify any areas of your life that are draining, holding you back, or don't align with your true self.
3. Create a step-by-step plan. Once you know your goals and where you currently stand, you can start putting together a plan of action. Break down your goals into smaller steps that you can complete. (See Measurable steps above)
4. Set a deadline. Having a timeline for your personal growth plan will help you stay on track. Make sure your deadlines are realistic and achievable.
5. Hold yourself accountable. In order to achieve your goals, you need to be held accountable. Ask a friend or family member to check in on your progress or join a support group.
6. Celebrate your success. As you reach each milestone, take some time to celebrate your success! This will motivate you to keep going and achieve even more.
"Change is inevitable but personal growth is a choice." - Bob Proctor