Why develop a personal strategic plan?
Imagine a future version of yourself – what image do you see? Do you like this future version of yourself? Most likely you do. It is also very likely that you have a general idea on how to deliver on that vision.
What is also very likely, but rarely considered is that without clearly spelt out and sequentially prioritized goals and action steps, you will get distracted on the way.
A personal strategic plan is at its basic a roadmap of what you want to achieve, how you will get there, and how you will know that you have arrived at your designated goal point. It is similar to a strategic plan used in businesses or organizations, but in this case, tailored specifically to an individual’s personal aspirations, values, and circumstances. A strategic framework has the following 9 main components.
- Vision Statement: This is a vivid aspirational statement articulating the picture you have of your ideal future self. It serves as a guiding beacon for all your actions and decisions.
- Mission Statement: The mission statement outlines your unique purpose in life. It answers the question: “Why do I exist?” It defines what you believe to be your exclusive contribution to the world.
- Environmental Scan: Macro & SWOT Analysis: Conducting a SWOT analysis helps you to identify your internal Strengths and Weaknesses, as well as the external Opportunities and Threats in your environment.
- Goals and Objectives: These are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) targets that you want to accomplish in various areas of your life, such as career, education, relationships, health, finances, personal development, and recreation.
Here is a complete step-by-step guide to developing your own personal strategic plan. If you would like this guide in MS word, feel free to reach out to David.