That time of year again when I have to think about the achievements of the last year and marry them off against my dreams of 12 months ago and then look forward to the next year, putting in plan my aspirations for the next 12 months.

It's all bollocks though, isn't it? Do you have to do this?

What training would you like? Doesn't matter as I won't get it.
Would you like to be considered for a promotion? Doesn't matter as there are none avaiable
Are you happy with your work / life balance? Gah!

Previous employer we actually filled these in retrospectively. Where would you like to be in twelve months, twelve months ago? Here? Great, you've passed your appraisal. Have a Smartie