This time of year is the perfect time to relax, contemplate life and dream big.
With work making up such a huge part of your life, it's a great time to consider if you are happy and satisfied with your job and workplace.
You might have returned after the break and... not feel as happy and motivated as you might have hoped.
Maybe you've been thinking, could this be the year you take the leap and make a major change?
So, grab a pen and notebook, and take some time out for some quality 'me' time.
It's time to reflect on the year that was and figure out where you want to go this year!
Here are a few questions to get you thinking and reflecting on your future career goals:
What do you enjoy about your current work?
What have you enjoyed about your previous jobs?
What do you consider to be work-life balance?
Do you currently have work-life balance?
What energises you? Do you get this from work or outside work?
Do you enjoy your organisation's culture?
How do you like to spend your time? Does your work give you some of this?
Do you have a career plan at all? Do you need or want one?
Accountability for your goals and resolutions
Did you stick to your resolutions last year? No? You aren't the only one. Most people don't! (I read that only 9% of New Year Resolutions are fulfilled.)
If you decide that you are seriously considering a career change or job move then I highly recommend seeing a career or life coach to help you figure out exactly what you want to do and how to make it happen - as accountability is so important.
If seeing a coach isn't for you, then work with a friend and you can keep each other accountable.
Breaking down your career goals into actions
A coach will help you to break your big picture goals into actionable, manageable steps. Of course, you can also do this yourself!
Large goals can be overwhelming, but baby steps to get you there will mean you are achieving things, and this will keep you motivated - all the way to achieving your bigger goal.
So if your goal is to find a new job, your actions might look like this:
Start researching roles on SEEK or LinkedIn.
See a career / job coach to discuss options. (Note, I offer ad hoc career coaching and can also refer you to other coaches.)
Book a meeting with your manager to discuss options at your current organisation.
Enrol in Not Just a Resume Template and get your resume and LinkedIn sorted.
Start connecting with more people on LinkedIn and get more active on the platform.
Apply for at least 2 roles by X.
Once you have your list of actions, add in dates to keep yourself accountable, then tick them off as you complete them!
You'll reach your career goal in no time.
Need to overhaul your resume, letter and LinkedIn? Enrol in Not Just a Resume Template.
Need some job interview coaching? Enrol in Job Interview Confidence.
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