As the year draws to a close, you might start to reflect on your work life over the past 12 months. Whether you’ve recently started an exciting new position or are currently considering a career shift, now is a great time to make some work-related New Year’s resolutions. Here a few tips for preparing for a successful new year at work.
Be a Little Braver
We all have a comfort zone where we spend most of our time, but it’s important not to get stuck there. Maybe you avoid confrontation at any cost, or perhaps you’re in a professional rut. In the New Year, try to become just a little bit braver in your professional life. Speak up concisely and professionally when an issue arises. Apply for that dream job. Remember, it’s only the first time once. Surviving the discomfort of stepping outside your comfort zone proves to you that you can do it, and it only gets easier the more you practice.
Broaden Your Network
No one is an island, and the best opportunities come along when you’re proactively engaging with the world. Make a list of people you’ve lost contact with, and strive to touch base with one person each week. Nurture those rebuilt connections while remaining open to new contacts as well. By the end of the year, you’ll have a strong network of people you can rely on professionally, and some may become personal friends as well.
Learn Something Every Day
In the modern age, we have access to the combined knowledge and wisdom of everyone who has come before. We also have the unparalleled opportunity to delve deep into new discoveries in real-time. Take advantage of this by committing to learning something new each day. Read articles both in and out of your field. Take a class. Start a book club. Exactly how you learn isn’t as important as the act of stretching your brain.
Make Time for Yourself
Between a demanding job, family responsibilities, hobbies, and maintaining a social life, it might seem like you never have time to sit down. Yet carving out time for yourself is essential to finding balance and thriving in all areas of your life. Schedule at least 20 minutes of alone time every day, and try to find an hour or two each weekend. Whether you listen to music, treat yourself to coffee, or go for a hike, the important thing is to spend time with your thoughts.
Give Yourself Credit
It’s easy to get bogged down in negativity, but take some time to give yourself the recognition you deserve. Keep a positivity journal where you write down your successes every day or week. Also, keep a file of thank you notes, praise emails, and other external markers of your success.
Ready for Your Next Career Move?
To learn how Custom Staffing can help you find a new job for the New Year, contact us at 419-221-3097 or apply online today.
