If changing careers is in your future, clearly having goals and taking action will be essential. The problem is that it not always easy
to stay on track or build the necessary momentum. Taking action is obviously an important piece of the puzzle as is planning and having the drive to succeed. Remember, the career changers who take action will see results.
So how do you stay on track and motivate yourself to keep working toward your career goals – especially when you have the day-to-day to deal with like your job, relationships, college and family life? There are some strategies that will motivate you more than others, so it is good for you to experiment and find what works best for you. Use the strategy that works best for you to keep on track.
Here are three techniques that will help you to reach your career goals:
1. You probably have some pretty big career goals. If you break your career goals into smaller steps, they will seem much more attainable. For instance, if you’re taking graduate classes, rather than looking at a block of several years, count your courses instead. After you’ve completed a course, reward yourself for a job well done. By breaking your goals down into smaller tasks, you’ll be more apt to stay on track. And, your rewards will happen much more often.
2. Understand your limitations. You know everything there is to know about yourself, so use that info to your advantage and identify each of your limits. If you typically move slowly, you’ll know that the best approach for you is taking less time and taking even more action. You will also know then that taking an accelerated course to get your project management certificate might not be a great match for you. A slower paced course might work best for you. Obviously you’ll decide what works.
Also consider that if you are one who decides to take on a lot in a very short period of time, it may be best for you to step back so you don’t burn yourself out. Clearly you’re the one who knows what the magic formula is that will allow you to realize your goals without causing great stress. By using this formula, you’ll maintain your momentum and consistently take action.
3. Eliminate any distractions or as many as possible. Life is full of stuff that gets in the way. No matter if you’re heading down a new career path or not, there will always be things that will want your attention. Try to clear some of those diversions out of way especially when you need to take action.
In other words, if you’re a busy and social person, you might want to avoid the temptation of spending time with family and friends if it is during the time you’ve allotted for work. And, stay away from your cell phone, the net and anything else that might veer you off course.
Know what works for you and you’ll be able to stay on track and motivate yourself to keep working toward your career goals. Don’t forget to experiment to find out what really motivates you. Take small steps and reward yourself often – you will be able to stay on track and it won’t be as painful a process as it could be that’s for sure.
Making a career change does not have to be an agonizing process. Patricia Erickson discusses the ins and outs of career change in detail in her new book entitled Career Management Guide: A Practical Approach To Career Change In Any Economy.
Patricia is a highly regarded career management expert and certified professional resume writer with over twelve years of executive recruiting and coaching experience. She partners with career changers and job seekers to design strategies that transform careers. Patricia has helped clients to navigate toward their true career aspirations as well as finding purpose and personal fulfillment.