Motivation
We know that adults are motivated to learn and change when we appeal to their personal growth and personal gain. In other words, it is important to find out WIIFM- What's In It For Me? Motivation also increases when enhanced self-esteem and empowerment are part of the deliverables. So, figure out what you stand to gain by bridging the gaps in your performance. How will your work performance improve? In what ways will you become a more effective leader? How will your development affect the team and your relationship with others? Give these questions some careful consideration. At the same time, take a hard look at the consequences of not doing anything to improve your game. Will you still be seen as progressive in the company? How will not changing affect your chances for advancement? Will your work relationships suffer? These consequences can also serve as a motivating influence on your commitment to change. Make your lists of what you stand to gain and what you stand to lose. Revisit the issue in a few days and add to your list of motivators.

Change Partners
Enlist the involvement of others. Change requires support from others playing a variety of roles: coach, mentor, counselor, advocate, and more. Change requires change partners! You've seen from your own experience that your commitment to change can wax and wane. (Exercise? Stop smoking? Diets? Temper?) It really helps to have someone in your corner who is supporting your efforts and gently reminding you to get back on track if they see you slip. Who can you involve in your development plans? Which colleagues would support you in achieving your goal? How can your spouse help you monitor your progress? Is your supervisor interested in helping you? (They usually are and usually see your efforts as highly commendable.) You've now got the basics for developing yourself and supercharging your career. Start your own Career Development project today by gathering these three pieces of the Action Plan!