Making New Year resolutions or goals might not seem like a thing for this year but in reality creating one or two small and attainable goals can give you a sense of accomplishment and increase your confidence.
We share tips and advice to help get you started.
Think about what motivates you and why
Are you feeling stuck in a career rut? Or were you laid off and looking to make a career change? If you’re thinking of making a job change this year ask yourself why? What are you looking for? It could be career growth, a desire to work in a different industry or to make more money.
Set bite size goals that are achievable
Focus on goals that are doable. This could be learning a new skill or taking on some freelance work. You could start out by watching one webinar or by spending 20 minutes checking out freelance opportunities in your field. The trick is to do it consistently so that it becomes part of your routine.
Set one or two goals
Having too many goals at once can be overwhelming making it harder to achieve.
Make a plan to achieve the goal
Many of us launch into something new with gusto thinking that enthusiasm will carry the day. The reality is that even the best intentions can go awry without a plan.
A friend of mine told me she always achieves her goals. How? By setting small goals and making a plan. Last year she wanted to earn a new credential to help her get a promotion. First, she signed up for an exam date six months from the date she began to study. Then, she created a weekly study plan and tracked her progress to make sure she was on track.
Let’s say your goal is to create an emergency savings fund. What are the steps you need to take to do that? Do you need to spend less or save more? Do you want to start a side hustle or take on freelance work?
Once you have settled on how you are going to create that emergency fund, make a detailed plan to achieve it. Anticipate what you need to accomplish the goal and any barriers or obstacles that may come up.
Using a planner will help you set goals and track your progress. Download our free goal setting guide and planner here.
Be kind to yourself
If you find that you are unable to stick to the plan you made, then make a new plan. Encourage yourself by setting small milestones and reward yourself when you achieve those milestones. Even if you don’t achieve your goal as quickly as you’d like or in the way you planned, it’s important to congratulate yourself for what you have accomplished.
This article is part of our Career Moves series; advice and guidance to help you achieve your career aspirations.
Arche helps people architect, navigate and advance their career path with expert advice and tools to support your job search, interview preparation, professional branding, salary negotiations, and career advancement.
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