Why Plan?
The Individual Development Plan taps into goal-setting theory. According to the literature, goal-setting around concrete objectives, as well as frequent adjustments to and reflections on goals, are basic criteria underpinning achievement.
The basic idea of goal-setting theory is that "conscious goals affect action" (Locke & Latham 2002: 705). As such, the IDP is both a process and a document: it is the product of 1) self reflection, 2) establishing priorities for the future, 3) planning goals, and 4) engaging and tracking progress.
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The Value of Self Reflection
The link between intrinsic motivation, goal achievement, and subjective well-being is well supported. So-called "self-concordant goals" (i.e. goals that are intrinsically motivated and forged at the intersection of values and interests) are more easily sustained and attained, thus increasing levels of subjective well-being and positive self-regard. Anticipating goal achievement through self-reflection enhances feelings of self-efficacy and motivation, creating a positive feed back loop through which mental and academic well-being further drive goal attainment.
Anticipatory affect - the positive feelings stemming from the sense that your goals are progressing - is especially necessary for long-term success as it energizes and prolongs goal commitment. In this way, using self reflection and benchmarks to monitor and structure goal progress provides a natural outlet for anticipatory affect to occur and for goal pursuit to continue.