Final answer:
An action plan is a strategic tool that helps break down goals into feasible action steps and provides a roadmap for achieving them. It ensures that actions are realistic, relevant, and time-bound.
Step-by-step explanation:
An action plan is a strategic tool used to identify the actions required to accomplish objectives and determine the sequence in which these actions should be undertaken. It helps break down goals into feasible action steps and provides a roadmap for achieving them.
For example, when setting career goals, creating an action plan allows you to lay out specific steps and target dates for each action, keeping you motivated and on track to reach your desired outcome. An action plan also helps in identifying alternative scenarios and actions that can be taken advantage of in the future.
When creating an action plan, it is important to consider the SMART criteria - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These criteria ensure that the actions identified are realistic, aligned with other goals, and have specific target dates or deadlines.