Have you taken any time lately to reflect on where you’re going in your career?
It’s easy fall into a “same old, same old” pattern where you get up, go to work, do your job in an adequate way or better, come home, then rinse and repeat. And while there’s nothing glaringly wrong with that, maybe giving some proactive thought to a plan for the future is a good idea. Here are eight tidbits to consider as you move forward:
- Always be learning.
No matter how many degrees you’ve earned or how much experience you have, never stop learning new things. Make continuous improvement your personal mantra. The minute you stop learning and improving is the minute you stop growing.
- Your attitude matters.
You don’t have to be happy, smiling and jumping for joy every minute of every workday, but try to avoid things like showing your disappointment when assigned a less-than-desirable task or rolling your eyes – literally or figuratively – when management makes a decision you disagree with. It may feel good, but only for about seven seconds. Maintain a positive attitude. You can vent your frustrations later, in private.
- If you’re not engaged in your job, it’s time for a change.
Simply put, you need to enjoy your work and find true satisfaction in it, as well as feel a natural part of the environment and the team, in order to perform well. If this description doesn’t fit, put things in motion to find a new opportunity.
- Consider finding a mentor.
A mentor is a sounding board, a compass to steer you in the right direction, and can tap you into their own network of professional contacts and resources. A good mentorship can last a lifetime.
- You can be replaced.
Avoid complacency in your work because, at the end of the day, you are a product that can be bought, sold and replaced at your employer’s discretion. The saying, “It’s not personal, it’s business” rings true in virtually every case.
- Focus on doing work you enjoy.
If your regular job tasks don’t center on work you have the most talent at and enjoy the most, it may make sense to make a change. There’s no motivation or enthusiasm otherwise, nor will you experience learning or growth.
- Always help others.
It’s the right thing to do. But helping others also helps you and your reputation as a professional. Being helpful pays endless dividends.
- Take care of yourself.
It’s like the advice the flight attendant gives: make sure your own oxygen mask is secure before taking care of anyone else’s. Learning, improvement, attitude, engagement success … none are possible unless you practice self-care. Stay healthy and fit physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The rest will fall into place.
Accurate Staffing Consultants can help you keep your career on track in areas including healthcare, light industry and more. We have additional advice, insight and expertise to help you find exactly the right job and achieve all you set out to on the path to long-term success. Contact us today to hear more.