As the curtain falls on another eventful (or maybe not so eventful) year, the start of a new year invites us to reflect on our aspirations and set resolutions with purpose. For me, November and December are months when I reflect on the previous months in the calendar year. I review what went well and what didn’t. I used to really bash myself when I didn’t meet my goals or complete what I wanted. However, that didn’t do me any good. In more recent years, it has been helpful for me to break goals down into smaller ones.
While the tradition of making New Year's resolutions is probably very familiar to you, the key lies in crafting goals that are small, tangible, and achievable. Instead of letting resolutions become fleeting promises to be forgotten, instead focus your attention to the workplace and establish 15 smaller and measurable goals that can make this new year your most successful yet.
1. Prioritize Health at Work: Dedicate yourself to five simple, health-conscious habits at work. Whether it's packing a nutritious lunch or opting for the stairs, these small changes can accumulate into significant improvements. Planning ahead is incredibly important. Find what strategies work for you.
2. Acquire a New Skill: Elevate your professional prowess by learning a new skill. Identify an area in your field that could enhance your career and set it as a goal for the year. Your dedication might even lead your company to support your learning journey.
3. Cultivate a Reading Habit: Enhance your professional outlook by committing to reading at least one career-related or motivational book. The power of literature can provide fresh perspectives and fuel your personal and career development.
Blog post by: Stacey Inal, MA, MBA
Women's Career Coach and Pyschotherapist
https://inspiringwomencoaching.com/
4. Revamp Your Resume: Take a close look at your resume, ensuring it reflects your current achievements and aspirations. Even if you're not actively job hunting, periodic resume updates prevent valuable information from slipping through the cracks. Try companies like FIVERR to help you.
5. Expand Your Professional Network: Aim to make at least one new professional connection each month. Growing your network not only opens doors but also enriches your professional landscape.
6. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile: Your LinkedIn profile is a key element of your personal brand. Regularly review and enhance it, drawing inspiration from colleagues who have effectively captured attention.
7. Declutter Physical and Digital Spaces: Streamline your work environment by decluttering physical and digital files. This not only fosters efficiency but also contributes to a clearer mindset. Clean off your desk and get rid of what no longer provides happiness.
8. Follow a Relevant Blog: Stay informed and inspired by following a blog relevant to your industry or personal interests. Engaging with such content can spark conversations with colleagues and invigorate your perspective. There are many women career oriented blogs to follow.
9. Seek a Work Mentor or Hire a Career Coach: Identify a respected figure within your company or in your industry and ask if they would be willing to be your work mentor. You can also hire a business coach if you feel stuck. This valuable relationship can propel your career forward and inject a sense of camaraderie.
10. Update Your Professional Headshot: Invest in a high-quality, representative professional headshot for your online profiles. A visually appealing image can positively impact your personal brand.
11. Express Gratitude: Send at least one handwritten thank-you note each month. This simple act not only shows appreciation but also fosters a positive work environment. A handwritten note means so much to others and it also gives you a chance to reflect on gratitude. Perhaps keep a gratitude by your bed and before you sleep you write down one to two things that you were grateful for during the day. Gratitude journaling is a scientifically proven method to increase happiness.
12. Join a Professional Organization: Invest in your professional growth by joining a relevant professional organization. The benefits gained from connections and learning opportunities often outweigh the associated costs.
13. Evaluate Work-Life Balance: Assess your work-life balance and initiate steps to enhance it. Engaging in open discussions with family and friends can provide valuable insights and set the stage for improvements. You may need emotional support too. Consider hiring a psychotherapist to help you.
14. Volunteer: Dedicate time to a cause that resonates with you. Volunteering not only positively impacts the community but also instills a sense of fulfillment in your personal and professional life. There are many places to look for a volunteering opportunity that will make your heart sing.
15. Earn a New Professional Certification: Elevate your credentials by acquiring a new professional certification. This investment in your skills can pay significant dividends in your career.
As you usher in the new year, let these concrete workplace goals guide you toward a year of professional growth, fulfillment, and success. Remember, this list isn’t about doing everything at once. Instead, it provides ideas to help you break down goals into small bite sizes. Then you can check them off as you go. Cheers to a year of achievable resolutions and career milestones!
Written by: Stacey Inal, MA, MBA
Women's Career Coach and Psychotherapist
https://inspiringwomencoaching.com/
https://www.StaceyInal.com/