Introduction
In the context of this reflexive study, I consider an example of my planning using the methods of Gibbs’ cycle of self-assessment. Such an example is the process of choosing the direction and prioritizing the upcoming vacation. Using the cycle, feelings and descriptions of the plan’s details were analyzed, evaluated, and then analyzed to form a conclusion about its effectiveness. Moreover, the SWOT method was determined to be the primary and most effective decision-making tool. In considering each element of the plan and the stages of its formation according to the Gibbs’ reflexive cycle, a specific analysis of advantages and disadvantages becomes effective.
Moreover, given the closed nature of the reflexive model, it is necessary to note its usefulness in improving further planning. Accordingly, the influence of self-reflexivity on potential development is significant since it can affect the quality and speed of decision-making (Belenkova, 2021). Thus, even when specific decisions need to be made regarding job proposals or follow-up activities for a position, there is a need for such analysis (Biktagirova and Karimova, 2019). The constant comparison of possibilities, taking into account the emerging risks, is no less important for the outcome, which also contributes to the development of the general skill of decision-making and analysis of one’s actions.
Reflection and Analysis
Gibbs’ model of the reflexive cycle includes obligatory stages to be considered. The order of consideration of these stages is accepted, to begin with, the description and analysis of own feelings (Crane et al., 2019). A decision has been made to take a vacation abroad, and Thailand was initially chosen as the country to visit. In this case, a part of the given conditions can be beyond the scope of the concrete analysis, as such an event was planned for a very long time. Therefore, the main attention was concentrated on determining the route and the specific terms of stay in this country. The determinants of the description of the future trip included mandatory criteria: staying on the beach, sightseeing, appreciation of local cuisine, convenience, and cost of the trip. In the context of feeling, the excitement before the trip and being overwhelmed by the many options to consider could be highlighted. Since the trip is planned to another country and a long flight is implied, the stress level was significantly elevated during itinerary planning.
The evaluation involves applying a SWOT analysis and is complicated by the lack of vacation results. However, at the moment of self-reflection, it is possible to emphasize the optimality of the chosen conditions to meet all the requirements. Among the strengths, it is necessary to highlight the strengths of the formed plan, affecting its effectiveness (Vlados, 2019). Thus, the strengths include the overall detail of the plan, the suitability of the chosen Bangkok and Phuket for the given conditions of the combination of beaches and the city, the convenience of direct flights, favorable hotel rates, and thoughtful timing. Nevertheless, when evaluating a plan using this methodology, it is important to consider its disadvantages (Omer, 2019). Weaknesses are time and nerve consumption for planning, the higher cost of a direct flight, skipping a very interesting city of Chiang Mai in the itinerary, and not choosing a convenient mode of intercity transportation. Based on these indicators, the planning process can be assessed as satisfactory and conducive to developing skills.
The next step, in which the second half of the SWOT methodology was adopted, is analysis. This step involves considering and determining the reasons that may have influenced the assessment or the process (Dillahunt and Hsiao, 2020). According to Thiagraj, Abdul Karim, and Veloo (2021), it is the main reflection step and should consider the previous steps. Given the possibility of growth and development of the planning skill and possible improvements in the process, a number of potential opportunities and risks can be identified. These include working out the plan more precisely when there is spare time, paying more attention to prices, and forming even clearer routines. Threats to the planning process could include using incorrect information about the details of a stay in Thailand, overbooking a hotel or transportation, and making poor decisions due to stress. Nevertheless, the reflective experience of such planning is successful and sufficiently detailed, which reduces the likelihood of threats.
At the stage of formation of a conclusion creation of support for the following step – the creation of the plan of improvements is made. This fact is highlighted by many researchers and users of the Gibbs’ model (Adeani, Febriani, and Syafryadin, 2020; Rodek, 2019). Therefore, it is necessary to highlight the importance of conducting thorough research before each planning. All factors that may affect the outcome must be considered, and increasing the ability to identify them contributes to developing planning skills (Mannion, 2022). Equally important is being open to new experiences and stepping outside my comfort zone, which I used in the process. Accordingly, going forward, I will continue to use these skills not only when planning trips but likewise when making any decisions in detail. I will embrace new challenges, and stepping out of my convenience area will have less impact on my career activities.
Conclusion
By applying Gibbs’ reflexive cycle to a case in my own experience, I was able to analyze my decision-making and planning process. Increasing the amount of information to process before making a decision, focusing on possibilities and risks, and working through any additional factors can help improve future actions. Applying this cycle to different scenarios can help people gain insight into their own experiences and analyze their strengths and weaknesses to improve their own effectiveness going forward. Thus, self-reflection can be useful with a qualitative approach and contribute to developing my skills and career.
Reference List
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