Personal Development

We know our limitations and every area that needs improvement but sometimes we keep waiting for the nudge, the push, the promptings, the encouragement or the support from a third party.

It's also funny how we sometimes wait for the system to support us, or for the working environment to be favourable, our boss to recommend us for training, or HR department to chart a realistic career path for us and we feel cheated when the system provides neither financial nor moral support to aid our personal/professional growth.

In as much as these expectations are not way out of line. Employers should truly and sincerely have well-defined career paths for their employees and ensure they follow through. 

However, we need to give ourselves a reality check. Personal, Professional or Career development shouldn't be left to chance. Nobody knows you better than you know yourself.

We owe ourselves that responsibility to take charge of our personal growth and not wait for others to dictate the tone or pace.

You need to know the what, the why, the how, the who/where and the when of your personal development plan.

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WHAT?

Identify your knowledge or skill gaps. Where do you lack the basic requirements for a particular task or role.What specific skill do you need to develop?

WHY? 

What are reasons for developing this skill? Is it based on industry or job requirement? Is it in line with your long-term development plan?

HOW?

Highlight how you intend to bridge the gap. What method do you want to explore -Online learning, on-the-job training, classroom based training, etc. What is the cost implication?

WHO/WHERE?

Identify the skill provider- a learning centre, school, a colleague. What's the location?

WHEN?

Develop specific timelines on when you want to acquire the skills. It could be short term or long term.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3-5years or 10years??

Start acquiring, developing or sharpening the skills required to achieve that personal goal.

It is solely your responsibility.