Can you believe 2013 is over? What an amazing and inspiring year it was! The end of one year and the beginning of another is a great time to reflect on all the amazing things that have happened and to get your goals, plans and resolutions in order for the New Year. Here are 5 work resolutions I think everyone should keep in mind for 2014.
1. If you're unhappy at your job, search for a new one
It's a new year and you have bigger and brighter things in mind, but you're in a job that no longer is a fit for you. A new year is a great time to make a big change, even if it seems a little scary. What's even more scary is staying in a job just because you're comfortable, when an even better one might be waiting for you. Just as the end of the year is a time for reflection, the beginning is time for a change.
2. Ask for that promotion
Been waiting all of 2013 and didn't have the guts to ask your boss for a promotion? Now is your chance. Don't give yourself time to think; you've had all of 2013 to do that. Do what scares you first and setup a time to meet with your boss, especially if it's something you were planning to do last year. If January doesn't seem like the right time, then ask yourself when you really think would be a good time to set this process in motion. Chances are, it's just an excuse and there are layers to the things you should evaluate.
3. Take care of yourself
Sure, this is a list for WORK resolutions, but if you're not taking care of yourself, it will effect your work. I recently started reading a fascinating book on the science of how exercise vastly effects your brain. One of the things the author talks about is doing some form of cardio prior to a difficult task. Doing so will greatly improve your focus and ability to solve any challenge/problem you may have. It also makes you happier, allows you to deal with stress and a huge list of other benefits you've probably already heard of. Make sure to incorporate some sort of exercise into your day, even if it is just a 10 minute walk during your lunch break. You'll not only feel better, you'll do better at work too.
4. Network, even if you hate it
No more excuses this year! No matter what your job is, you will benefit from meeting new people. If you've never attend networking meetings because you truly hate them, make an effort to find a group that you hate the least. For example, I can't stand the 7 AM breakfast networking meetings and how it sometimes seems the focus is really all about what can I GET rather than what I can give. I choose to go to events where the mindset and focus is on value rather than sales. I also choose to have one-on-one lunches rather than eat in a large group setting when possible. I get more done, I meet great people and build relationships which help every career.
5. Saying NO and sticking to it
I know it seems odd that I'd list this as a resolution, but if you've ever over-promised and under-delivered, then you this one should make your list, too. If you've taken on a client just for the extra business but they end up sucking the life out of you, or if you cover for a co-worker that is "in need" when really you should let them do their own work. Stand by what you say and feel! You will not only feel better, but you'll see better results at work.
Remember, not all resolutions are met and that's because you need a plan. A lot of people set a goal without a plan and then wonder why that goal wasn't achieved. Whether you're looking for a special promotion for 2014 or are looking to increase your business by a certain dollar amount, attach a plan and keep at it. Break down the goal so that it's less daunting in your mind and so that you have action items to do each day. For example, if you want 120 new clients for the year, break that down to 10 new clients per month, or 2-3 new clients per week. Then ask yourself, "What should I do EVERY day so that I hit this goal?"
What are some of YOUR New Year's work resolutions? Let us know in the comment below!
-Sayeh, The Office Stylist