In our 365-day year, 525,600 minutes have passed, and we have learned many lessons. Nothing is wasted, and the beginning of a new year presents a fresh start, a time to meditate on what we learned, what we wish to repeat and what we want to avoid – all in an effort to keep making forward progress in our careers and professions. Here are some lessons I learned that may prove helpful for you – as we do not have to personally learn every lesson, but leverage the experiences of others:
Embrace Opportunity – Even If Beyond the Comfort Zone. It’s never too early or too late to learn or do something new – even if completely beyond the realms of the comfort zone. It begins and ends with an “I Can, I Will” attitude, while developing and executing an action plan to achieve the goal. With the same rigor demonstrated when accepting opportunity, keep the fervor and focus to cross the finish line strong.
If Success is Not as Expected, Don’t Give Up. When success does not show up as desired, take time to reflect, refocus and relaunch. Seek answers –
- What did I learn?
- Is my target what it should be or should I shift my focus?
- Does my pursuit align with my natural given talents and interests?
- Am I seeking to please others or staying true to my focus?
- What should I do differently?
- Who might I engage to provide support and objective insight?
Not making a success target is neither failure, nor is it final – unless one gives up. Instead, it’s an opportunity to learn and develop resilience, to get that “bounce-back” that sets up a springboard to the next opportunity.
Never Go It Alone. As a Christ-follower, repeated Biblical accounts of people coming together to achieve greater than results provide a pathway for action. Develop and maintain a community of support, practicing selfless generosity. Rally others to join in working toward a specific goal and value their engagement (actively listening and integrating their feedback), making it possible to accomplish more than one could ever expect or imagine in targeted results.
As you plan your career success, do not go it alone. Contact us for an initial career development consultation.
Lillian Davenport, SPHR, SHRM – SCP, CTACC, Principal, End View Solutions, LLC
