The Power of Taking Action. Taking action is the most important step towards success. The simple truth is that dreams, visions and goals are achieved and accomplished only through action.

Action-oriented goals are tasks, projects, milestones or activities. They aren’t true goals, even though it’s common to refer to the completion of a task or project as a goal. They don’t describe an impact or outcome that is an enduring quality that can be continually improved, or that continually matters.

Taking action helps you overcome your fears. And, as you expand your comfort zone, you are more willing to come out of that corner and do things that benefit your life, which helps you overcome even more fears. Constantly taking action creates a positive cycle that helps you create the life of your dreams.

Action plans help people know what needs to be done to complete a task, project, initiative or strategy. An action plan generally includes steps, milestones, and measures of progress, as well as responsibilities, specific assignments, and a time line. Action plans are an important part of strategic planning.

The action plans should be organised along the strategic objectives, outcomes and outputs which will be achieved. They should include a budget, a financing plan and a M&E process (see ESSENCIAL STEPS). Each objective aims at an impact which translates into an outcome.

When should you create an action plan? Ideally, an action plan should be developed within the first six months to one year of the start of an organization. It is developed after you have determined the vision, mission, objectives, and strategies of your group.

How to Use SMART

1. Specific. Your goal should be clear and specific, otherwise you won’t be able to focus your efforts or feel truly motivated to achieve it.
2. Measurable. It’s important to have measurable goals, so that you can track your progress and stay motivated.
3. Achievable.
4. Relevant.
5. Time-bound.

Three Action Steps to Help You Achieve Your Goals

• Carefully outline the goal. Make sure it is specific and measurable.
• Break down the goal into specific parts that are attainable.
• Be mindful of your feelings.

Creating an Effective Action Plan

1. Choose an appropriate goal and clearly define your objective.
2. Use a team to create your action plan.
3. Choose action steps that are concrete, measurable and attainable.
4. Identify who is responsible for each action step and who will be supporting them.

Here are the Four Stages:

1. Formation: Developing the plan.
2. Communication: Sharing the plan.
3. Implementation: Doing the plan.
4. Evaluation: Assessing the plan.

Setting objectives is the primary step in planning. Objectives or goals specify what the organisation wants to achieve.

Planning is one of the four functions of management that allows a manager to develop and implement strategic action steps aimed at reaching an organizational goal. There are three major types of planning, which include operational, tactical and strategic planning.

Explanation: succession plan is not a recognized plan. Explanation:The process of finding and developing the abilities of new employees so that they can replace the old ones is defined as the succession plan.