Reflective practice: a practical guide for personal development

Reflective practice is an individual, introspective process of examining strengths and weaknesses to learn and develop. Undertaking planned reflection demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and future development. This article provides a step-by-step guide to the process.

What are the links between reflection and professionalism? According to Zijlstra-Shaw et al (2013), ‘professionalism can be defined as the manner in which one reflects on and reconciles different aspects of professional practice, which demonstrates acceptance of professional responsibility and accountability’.

Furthermore, it is argued that if dental nursing is to be recognised as a profession, dental nurses need to be engaged in ‘critical thinking, professional reflection and the examination and evaluation of self, in terms of personal core capabilities and capacity’ (Reed, 2011).