In reflection, an action plan is the crucial step where you plan for what you would do differently in a similar or related situation in the future. It's not just about identifying past lessons but actively determining how you will apply those lessons moving forward.
Understanding the Action Plan
Based on the definition provided, the action plan phase of reflection focuses on translating insights gained from looking back into concrete steps for the future.
Planning the 'What'
The primary component of an action plan in reflection is deciding what specific actions or behaviors you will change or adopt when faced with a similar situation again. This involves:
- Identifying key takeaways from your reflective process.
- Determining which aspects of your previous approach were ineffective or could be improved.
- Formulating alternative strategies or responses.
For example, if reflecting on a difficult meeting, the "what" might be: "I will prepare a clear agenda beforehand" or "I will allocate specific time for questions."
Planning the 'How'
Crucially, the reference highlights that a truly effective action plan also involves thinking about how you will help yourself to act differently. This goes beyond simply stating what you should do and considers the practical steps needed to ensure the desired change actually happens. This is because simply knowing what to do is often not enough; intentional effort is required to break old habits or implement new ones.
Considering the "how" might involve:
- Identifying potential obstacles to implementing the planned changes.
- Developing strategies to overcome these obstacles.
- Setting reminders or creating cues to trigger the new behavior.
- Seeking support or resources if needed.
- Practicing or rehearsing the new approach.
Using the meeting example, the "how" might involve: "I will block out 15 minutes in my calendar the day before every meeting specifically for agenda creation" or "I will ask a colleague to help me structure the discussion points."
Key Components of an Action Plan in Reflection
An action plan in reflection bridges the gap between learning and application.
| Component | Description | Example Action (What) | Example Strategy (How) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Future Focus | Planning for similar or related situations in the future. | Respond calmly to unexpected feedback. | Practice deep breathing exercises before challenging meetings. |
| Difference | Identifying specific changes you would make to your approach or behavior. | Allocate more time for planning tasks. | Schedule planning time blocks in calendar at start of week. |
| Enablement | Considering how you will ensure you actually implement these planned changes. | Seek clarification when unsure. | Prepare specific questions before discussions. |
In essence, an action plan in reflection is a forward-looking commitment to change, backed by a practical strategy for making that change a reality. It transforms the passive act of thinking about an experience into an active process of preparing for future success.
