As 2018 wraps up, there gathers a sense of relief and resolution and we take time off to rest and recover (hopefully!). It is also during this brief interim that many of us begin to feel the tides of change again with the onset of 2019, and with it, currents of the unknown; new life adventures, plans for business developments and growth, personal changes, the possibilities are endless.
And while riding the wave is fun, when it comes to all things business, you don’t want to get dunked or pulled out into rough swells. New Years is the perfect time for personal and professional reflection and to set goals for the next 365 days (and more if possible- like 5-year goals- those are good too). And if you feel like you don’t know where to start or are struggling to think of any New Year’s career goals, then check out some of our plans.
- Be Realistic about your Goals and Take Charge
During this holiday season, go hang out at your favourite thinking spot; maybe it’s sitting on the sand dunes or at your favourite café, and think seriously about where you are right now in your life and where you would prefer to be. Maybe it’s time to re-evaluate those career goals and find that thing that really blows your hair back. Or maybe it’s a case of going back to the drawing board to make minor changes and adjustments. Write it down, create a dream or vision board; it’s time to reinvent yourself and to put an extra spring in your business goals ‘step’ for the new year. Keeping your goals simple and achievable is a great way to ensure you stay on track and slowly build from strength to strength. But just be sure to take charge and give it your best shot. - Plan Ahead
Although we can’t always predict the next set of waves coming our way, we can do our best to prepare for them, just like the next set of challenges that may approach your business with the new year. Planning for your business covers many aspects; anything from conceptualising, content planning and social media strategy to more intrinsic factors such as perhaps practising better communication or EQ (emotional quotient) in the workplace or personal development like deciding to work on gaining a new set of skills. Planning ahead means getting the nitty-gritty out of the way to prevent all those lastminute.coms and it often allows for gaps in your work schedule for other tasks needing attention. Ultimately, having your schedule set for the year ahead, leaves you feeling in control and ready to handle any potential rough tides. - Get your Networking on
It’s a digital playing field but nothing beats a meaningful, tangible relationship and a solid referral. It might be time to paddle into deeper business waters, outside of your comfort zone, and start meeting up with the circles of people who can help you and your career ideas to grow. This new year, why not research business meet-ups, industry seminars or workshops that are happening in and around your side of town and jot them down in your calendar or book online to save your space. There will likely always be something constructive to gain from them with the added benefit of getting to know some new faces too. Use social media to your advantage and get gathering! - Radiate Positivity
Time to let the inner sunbeams shine out because a smile and a positive attitude go a long way. And just how paddling out to the good waves takes effort and time before enjoying the ride, reaching your career goals can take a while and include some swimming against the current. But succumbing to negativity will only make it worse. That’s why it’s important to stay focused on your success, surround yourself with friends and family who will keep you motivated and grounded and keep doing the things that energise you. A new year can mean a new attitude, a new perspective, a new direction, a new you!
Now that you are feeling inspired, why not grab a pen and paper or an electronic device and start jotting down some of your career goals for 2019? Remember, keep it realistic, be sure to plan ahead, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, always strive to turn that frown upside down and enjoy the ride!