Making Ethical Choices PAPER AND Goals Action Plan AND Reflective Analysis and Interpersonal Improvement Plan

Example: Here is what a reflective analysis looks like using the example we have been using with Tom’s professional goal:

Professional Goal: Work on nonverbal communication so my words match my nonverbal cues.

· Intermediate Goal 1: Take a course on interpersonal effectiveness.

· Action Item 1: Review the course catalog to learn about the available courses about Interpersonal Effectiveness.

· Action Item 2: Speak to my academic advisor about when I can enroll.

· Intermediate Goal 2: Practice conversations with myself—either talking to myself in the mirror or video recording conversations so I can see what others are seeing.

· Action Item 1: Learn to use the video record function on my smart phone by asking a tech-savvy friend.

· Action Item 2: Set aside ten minutes three times a week to practice using a positive tone of voice and facial expression when I speak.

· Intermediate Goal 3: In each team meeting, remember to smile and offer positive feedback.

· Action Item 1: At the very next team meeting, draw a smiley face on the top of my notebook to remind me to smile and make eye contact during the meeting.

· Action Item 2: Plan to say one brief supportive statement to each co-worker as they present their weekly reports.

Looking at Intermediate Goal 1, I reviewed the course catalog, spoke to my academic advisor, and discovered an interpersonal communication  class is not available until next January. So, while that is definitely a goal, I am changing it to something I can use immediately. Through an online search, I discovered an interpersonal effectiveness seminar happening in my town next weekend so I signed up it and will attend. 

Intermediate Goal 2 has been interesting because once my friend showed me how to use the record function on my phone, I noticed that I wear a natural scowl on my face. Each time I pass a mirror, I make an effort to notice my facial expressions. I also notice that I have a natural tendency to cross my arms in conversation. Although this feels comfortable I know that it makes me appear closed off or upset. Since I have been more conscious about how I appear to others, I have noticed that people I don’t normally interact with in the office are now starting conversations with me. 

Intermediate Goal 3 has shown the greatest improvement. After the first team meeting, a coworker commented that they really appreciated the positive feedback I gave them. In a meeting later in the week, the supervisor shook my hand and said that he appreciated my contribution to the discussion. It looks like the plan is working.