5 Career-Boosting New Year’s Resolutions
This year, instead of the standard been-there, done-that New Year’s resolutions (lose weight, hit the gym, eat more healthfully), why not focus on one or two totally attainable career boosters?
Here are some suggestions:
#1. Learn One New Thing (even if it has no immediate practical application)
When Steve Jobs was in college, he audited a calligraphy class. It wasn’t very practical at the time, but he later realized that the artistry of the course deeply inspired his sense of design at Apple.
Is there anything you’ve always daydreamed about doing? Then this is the year to take a class, attend a seminar, or read up on your area of choice. Don’t worry about the practicality, just have fun. It might take you somewhere unexpected.
#2. Read More
Resolve to reading more. Whether by subscribing to trade publications, following your industry on social media, or reading books by experts in your field, choose publications that inspire you.
This year, stay on top of your industry, so you can push your career forward.
#3. Become More Punctual
Punctuality is one of the first indicators of an organized, serious professional. Nothing screams “unprofessional” more than consistent tardiness. Make punctuality a priority by tracking how long it takes you to complete certain tasks (such as your morning routine). Then,
allow yourself extra time for each task. Finally, use a timer.
#4. Clean Out Your File Cabinets
Research shows that our brains like orderliness. Clutter, on the other hand, is perceived as a visual reminder of disorganization, reducing our ability to focus.
Whether your file cabinets are physical, digital, or a combination of both, chances are they could use a good weeding.
It shouldn’t take very long to clean out the old, irrelevant files and paperwork. Recycle the physical files you no longer need, then organize the rest.
#5. Volunteer
You can give back to your community and connect with people in your industry by volunteering. There are several volunteer opportunities under the umbrella of various professions. For instance, some charities teach tech skills like coding to children and people in need. If you're an educator, education outreach programs rely heavily on volunteer teachers.
Even if there’s no obvious choice for your industry, volunteering with any charity of interest will help you meet people, refine skills, and feel good about yourself. (It also looks great on your resume!)
Happy New Year from ComServe Solutions!
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