Career planning is best described as:

Career planning is best described as a process where individuals set career goals and identify means to achieve them. This definition highlights the active involvement of individuals in directing their professional journey rather than simply following a predetermined path. The essence of career planning is that it empowers individuals to assess their skills, interests, and values, as well as the opportunities available to them, thereby enabling them to create a tailored plan that aligns with their personal and professional aspirations.

This concept emphasizes the dynamic and ongoing nature of career planning, which requires continuous evaluation and adjustment based on changing circumstances, knowledge, and career environments. Individuals are encouraged to reflect on their experiences and navigate their careers proactively, making informed decisions about their next steps in pursuit of their goals.

Other options represent misconceptions about what career planning entails. A fixed course of career steps suggests rigidity and a lack of adaptability, which does not reflect the reality of most career paths that are often nonlinear. Management-driven talent acquisition strategy focuses on organizational goals rather than individual aspirations, and an occasional reflection on past achievements implies a passive approach to career development rather than an active planning process.