Introduction
Being effective at managing oneself makes one more productive and more effective at achieving
desired goals. Personal and professional success relies on self-awareness, adaptability, and
communication skills. A crucial aspect of personal effectiveness is reflection, since it allows
individuals to evaluate past experiences, identify areas for improvement, and refine skills. Based
on Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle, this assignment outlines the impact of a significant event in my life
on my skill development and career goals.
Task 1(a): Reflective Practice Using Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle
Based on Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle (1988), reflection is structured into six stages: description,
feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion, and action plan. Here is my reflection on an event that
shaped my professional and personal development.
Description
My journey began in 2018 when I enrolled at Riphah International University as a Bachelor’s
student in English Literature and Linguistics. The Head General Representative (GR) position
was offered to me as part of the stepped in my 3 rd semester by our department. In this role, I was
responsible for leading a team of 2-3 GR’s and serving as the primary contact between students
and faculty as well as the department. At that time, I battled impatience, negativity, and rebellion,
which made me doubt my ability to fulfill this responsibility. My department’s in-charge,
however, expressed confidence in my potential, saying, “There’s a spark in you. Never lose that.
It’s like a hunger. It will keep you going.”
Feelings
It was initially overwhelming and difficult for me to believe that I could lead effectively.
Communication with others and handling interpersonal conflicts were challenging for me due to
my aggressive and impatient nature. Once I adopted the “fake it until you make it” mindset, my
personality began to change for the better. It took me time to develop confidence, consistency,
and patience, which fueled my motivation to succeed.
Evaluation
It was a rewarding and challenging experience. However, my initial shortcomings, such as my
inability to regulate my emotions and adaptability, made the role challenging. I learned valuable
lessons about leadership, communication, and teamwork by leading and interacting with diverse
personalities. Developing my communication skills and connecting with my audience positively
impacted both my academic and personal life.
Analysis
This event marked a turning point in my self-improvement journey. I recognized that
accountability, resilience, and adaptability played a key role in my transformation. I learned how
to deal diplomatically with conflict, navigate different personalities, and fulfill my
responsibilities with dedication while serving as Head GR. According to Covey’s (1989) “7
Habits of Highly Effective People,” these skills align closely with essential competencies for
leadership and personal effectiveness. My experiences reinforce habits such as proactive
behavior and seeking to understand before being understood.
Conclusion
In retrospect, having served as Head GR provided me with crucial skills, such as confidence,
patience, and adaptability. In order to achieve personal effectiveness, it is crucial to be self-aware
and to continually improve. It illustrates the value of learning from challenges and embracing
them in the transition from rebellious and impatient individual to consistent and positive leader.
Action Plan
If I were given a similar opportunity, I would actively seek feedback, foster inclusivity, and set
clear team goals. In addition, I intend to take courses in communication and emotional
intelligence in order to refine my abilities.
Task 1(b): Skill Analysis in Relation to Career Aspirations
This experience and the skills developed from it, has directly benefited my career aspirations as
an educator and administrator. In order to manage diverse groups of students and colleagues
effectively, effective communication, teamwork, and leadership are vital. It is my ability to adjust
to different personalities and create a positive environment which makes me a suitable candidate
for management and academic roles. Furthermore, I will be able to handle the challenges of
teaching and administrative responsibilities with increased confidence and resilience.
Conclusion
The transformative power of personal effectiveness is evident in my journey from being skeptical
and impatient to being confident and effective as a leader. Through reflective practices and
embracing challenges, I developed skills I am confident will serve me for the rest of my life. As a
result of this experience, I now understand how vital it is to develop self-awareness, to be
adaptable, and to maintain a growth-oriented mindset in order to achieve personal and
professional success.
References
Covey, S. R. (1989). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal
Change. New York: Free Press.
Gibbs, G. (1988). Learning by Doing: A Guide to Teaching and Learning Methods. Oxford:
Further Education Unit.
