How To Use The Wheel Of Life For Personal Progress
Written by Michelle Ong | October 27, 2024
If you feel stuck or unsure where to start your growth journey, the Wheel of Life can help you get clear fast.
Setting goals can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re juggling work, personal growth, relationships, and everything in between.
If you’ve ever asked yourself:
- “Where do I even begin?”
- “What should I focus on next?”
- “Why do some parts of my life feel great while others feel messy?”
…you’re not alone. I’ve been there too.
That’s where the Wheel of Life becomes a game-changer.
It’s a simple visual tool that helps you see where your life is balanced, where it’s not, and where your next steps should go.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to grow intentionally — both personally and professionally.
Types Of Personal Goals (Made Simple)
Before you use the wheel, it helps to understand the kinds of goals you can set:
Achievement goals — promotions, degrees, certifications, milestones.
Developmental goals — communication, leadership, confidence, new skills.
Lifestyle goals — health, routines, boundaries, work-life balance.
Relationship goals — deeper connections, better communication, quality time.
The Wheel of Life helps you see how all these areas fit together so your goals are actually aligned with your life — not random or reactive.
What is the Wheel Of Life?
“We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.” – John Dewey
The Wheel of Life takes that idea and turns it into a visual map of your current life.
Different versions exist depending on what you want to focus on:
Standard Wheel — career, health, relationships, finances, personal growth.
Life Balance Wheel — overall harmony and well-being.
Business / Career Wheel — leadership, skills, performance, income.
Wellness Wheel — physical, emotional, mental, spiritual health.
Coaching Wheel — personal and professional development.
Pick the one that matches your goals — or mix and match.
How To Use the Wheel of Life (Step-by-Step)
Here’s the simple version:
1. Draw Your Wheel
Divide a circle into 6–8 sections that represent areas of your life (career, health, relationships, money, etc.).
2. Rate Each Area (1–10)
How satisfied are you right now?
1 = struggling
10 = thriving
3. Connect the Dots
Your ratings form a shape — and that shape reveals your life balance instantly.
4. Reflect
Which areas are strong?
Which feel neglected?
Which matter most right now?
5. Set Your Priorities
Choose 1–2 areas to focus on.
Set clear goals.
Make them doable.
Keep reviewing your progress.
What To Do After Your Self-Assessment
“Progress is not achieved by luck or accident, but by working on yourself daily.” – Epictetus
Once you see your wheel, you’ll probably notice:
Some areas are thriving.
Some areas are okay.
Some areas desperately need attention.
You don’t have to fix everything at once.
Start with one or two important areas, set actionable goals, and give yourself a realistic timeframe. Keep your goals simple, flexible, and aligned with where you want to go in your career and personal life.
Review your wheel quarterly (I do this too). Life changes — and your priorities should evolve with it.
💡Read about goal-setting principles and common mistakes when setting goals.
Design Your Personal Progress Wheel
If you want deeper clarity, create your own wheel tailored to your aspirations.
Choose 6–8 categories that matter most to you, such as:
Career Growth
Financial Stability
Health & Energy
Relationships
Learning & Skills
Confidence
Creativity
Emotional Well-being
Rate → Reflect → Plan → Act → Review.
Repeat quarterly.
💡Learn more on planning routines, beating procrastination, and goal-setting methods.
🌱 Reader Reflection
Before you go, ask yourself:
“Which area of my life right now needs attention the most — not because I should, but because it truly matters to my growth?”
Write it down. That’s where your next step begins.
