The start of a new year means a fresh start, new beginnings and maybe even time for change. It’s also a time when many of us set goals and intentions for the year ahead.
Unfortunately, only about 10% of the population actually achieves their New Year’s resolutions. That’s because we tend to set goals that are vague and difficult to measure.
Attainable Career Goals for the New Year
To ensure you succeed in the New Year, consider these 7 attainable career goals that are both specific and measurable.
1. Learn a New Skill
One of the best ways to advance your career is to constantly be learning. No matter what field you are in, or where you are in your career, there’s always room for improvement. Your new skill can be specific to your line of work, such as an advanced certification, or something more general, like public speaking.
We’ve put together a list of a few top-rated continuing education courses for entrepreneurs – all available online.
2. Attend a Networking Event
Whether you’re an established professional, a blossoming entrepreneur or a recent college graduate, networking can help you take the next step in your career. Make it a goal to attend at least one professional networking event each year to make new connections and stay on top of trends in your field.
3. Read a Book
Reading stimulates the mind, improves focus, concentration and memory, and expands our vocabulary, as well as our knowledge. If your daily reading habits consist of Facebook updates and company emails, resolve to read at least one book this year, preferably related to professional development, but motivational books and literary fiction will work, too.
4. Subscribe to a Blog
Blogs offer a wealth of free information, insider tips and timesaving tricks, so make it a goal to find one you enjoy and sign up to follow it. According to this Baltimore City property management company if you are more of a visual learner, subscribe to a YouTube channel specific to your industry or look for a vlog (video blog) instead. Not sure where to start? Ask your colleagues for recommendations.
5. Clean Out Your Files
When was the last time you cleaned out your inbox and files, both the digital and physical kind? Clutter is distracting and can prevent you from working efficiently, so at least once a year, set aside a few hours to sort through old emails and papers. Recycle and delete what you don’t need and organize what you do.
Want to keep up with this – and other easy office cleaning hacks – on a more regular basis? These 5-minute workspace cleaning tactics are a great place to start.
6. Send Thank You Notes
Thanking someone with a handwritten note makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship, so acknowledging other people’s contributions can actually lead to new opportunities. Make it a habit to send at least one thank you note a month, whether it’s to a co-worker who helped you out with a project, or your neighbor for picking up your mail.
7. Allow for Downtime
The term “work-life balance” has become a bit of a buzzword, but finding harmony between your work life and your personal life is not just another trend, it’s integral to your success. To avoid burnout and keep your battery charged, make sure you map out time for family, friends, vacations and personal projects.
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