Often when we think of career planning and new year’s resolutions our attention is purely focused on looking forward to the year ahead. Whilst this is a key part of the process it can be helpful to look backwards, to the year just gone, and see what progress you have made. A good first step is to note down three challenges that you successfully dealt with in the previous year. What skills and abilities did you use to overcome and solve these challenges? Were there any moments during the year that you were particularly proud of or feel were a big achievement? Note these down so that you can see the skills that you have developed. The new year is often billed as being all about “new beginnings” but this is the time to get into the mindset that with the right tools and knowledge you can start the year with a clear path to career success.
Motivation:
Motivation for change is typically a key reason why goal setting in the new year is a priority for many. It is useful to identify your reason for change. Are you motivated by financial means or by a change in status, for example? For many, achieving a healthy work-life balance is a top priority. Once you have identified your motivation it can make the process of writing down your goals much easier.
Clear & achievable goals:
When you have a clear vision and an idea of the direction that you want to take it can be useful to transfer these goals onto paper. If your goals are specific and measurable for the year ahead then you are more likely to stay focussed and driven to achieve them.
Try to make a plan that is sustainable as often by attempting to change everything all at once this often leads to burn out and folks becoming demotivated by the end of January! An action plan that is not sustainable can be exhausting, leading to lack of motivation and missed goals. It is a good idea, therefore to write down smaller goals that build towards the larger overall goal.
Another potential obstacle to be aware of are distractions. If key distractions are identified at the beginning of the process, then they are less likely to have an impact on the over all goal. By writing down your goals (and action plan to achieve them) and putting it somewhere visible you are more likely to achieve success.
- Pin your plan where you can see it regularly (helps to stay motivated)
- Set up smaller goals along the way and rewards for achieving them (this will really help to boost your motivation)
- Aim to find an accountability buddy (someone also looking to make changes and achieve goals – that way you can both help to keep each other on track and motivated).
Further resources:
The Career Planning Guide for New Research Staff
Undertake a Skills Audit
Review our Career Management Guide
1:1 Career Development Consultation
