Hand placing a wooden block on a pyramid stack.

As we continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, we are still certainly some way from returning to any semblance of pre-lockdown ‘normality’. Yet, we have seen businesses adapt during this difficult time. With so many factors to consider, many workers have naturally re-evaluating their careers and personal development. Because it's always a good idea to plan for your future career and growth, here are our key tips on keeping your career moving.

Plan Ahead

It's key to set goals before you lay out your career road map. Ask yourself what you truly want out of your career. What milestones do you want to hit? This could be a skillset a title, a shift in industry specialization, or anything you want to work towards. With some direction, you'll also find motivation in those difficult times. By defining a clear goal for yourself, one that will potentially deliver happiness and fulfillment when reached, you will gain a measure of clarity.

As we've seen recently, though, remember that the best-laid-plans often go awry. Have contingency plans and re-evaluate where you're going regularly. There's no shame in re-directing, or taking the necessary length of time to achieve your career goals. Move at your own pace and go your own way, even if that means changing course every once in a while.

Learn How to Transform Your Downturn

Recent events have highlighted that the only thing that's certain in this world is that nothing is certain. As such, your career will naturally experience highs and lows. It is inevitable that you will face setbacks and failures throughout your life despite your best efforts, but it is how you bounce back that counts. It's key to not let those difficult times hamper your drive.

Learn from your own mistakes and experiences, and look after your mental health and well-being along the way. Focus on the small steps you can take to move ahead, even if they seem trivial in the moment. You'll see them add up and create forward progress. Your road ahead may be bumpy, and there will be factors out of your control, but if you are resilient and do all you can to continue on your path, you will still meet your goals in the end.

Set Boundaries

Many people find it difficult to say, "no," especially in the workplace. It's human nature to want to please your managers and coworkers and make as few waves as possible. However, it is essential to set healthy boundaries for yourself.

Bad habits, negativity, overworking, and toxicity are sometimes hurdles we face at work. Navigating those relationships and processes is often difficult, but it is a worthy challenge if handled professionally and appropriately. Approaching these issues head-on will prove valuable in the long-run and contribute to your long-term success.

Commit Yourself Fully

In contrast, there are some hurdles and challenges that are positive. Committing yourself to a project or goal, and throwing all of your effort into it, can be extremely rewarding. Working longer hours or putting other plans on hold to fully-realize a project you can be proud of is often worth some sacrifice.

If something like this can help you to realize your career goals or reach a milestone, take every opportunity to succeed.

Communicate Your Vision

If you have a goal or vision for a project, express it. Your story and ideas can be extremely powerful, as it is very unique to you. Be confident in what you bring to the table and make sure you are getting your points across clearly. If applicable, use available technology in order to accomplish this.

This is not to say that you should be closed off to outside input or suggestion. A healthy dose of collaboration is always a benefit. However, you should stand your ground when it comes to your ideals, instincts, and abilities.

Build Your Connections

Through your career, you will meet all kinds of professionals. Each person will have a unique set of skills and experiences that you can learn from. Exchanging these stories and bits of advice with your network can be extremely beneficial to you as you navigate your personal career path. Use the personal connections that you've built in order to help yourself and others along your journey.

If you'd like more help building your career or taking the next step on your path, please request a call back by clicking here.