Every year at this time I think about my career, and I make all of these promises to myself about making some changes. But then the grind starts all over again come January, and I never seem to know where to start or how. Any tips for making it different this year?
Listen, Barry Manilow, it doesn’t have to be just another New Year’s Eve — this time you can resolve to do things differently. We all struggle with New Year’s resolutions — my promise to eat healthier lasts about as long as it takes for the next piece of bacon or Linzer torte to come within a ZIP code of my reach! That’s why it’s good to make some realistic goals, so you’re not completely demoralized by striking out on every one.
For all of my readers, I offer four easily attainable career goals for 2014:
Everyone knows networking is critical, but resolving to network more generally is doomed to fail when many people can barely survive a cocktail party. So start small, and resolve to make just one new connection each quarter: Attend an industry event, reach out to a new colleague, invite someone in your field on LinkedIn for coffee — just to get started — and soon you’ll get into the habit.
Next, update your resume, even if you aren’t looking for a job. It’s always smart to take stock of what you’ve accomplished and what skills you have. You don’t have to do anything with it — but you’ll be amazed at what you may be inspired to do next once you’ve done that simple task.
Third, acquire one new skill. It doesn’t matter what — HTML5, knitting, public speaking — just add something new to your “whole person” tool kit to stay fresh and interesting.
Finally, adopt a healthier attitude. Negativity brings stress and bad juju. Oh, I know there are some colleagues whose behavior can turn a Tibetan monk into a raging, hateful co-worker. But pause, breathe and smile more often. People will admire your self-control.
Warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a happy and healthy new year.