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by Annette Richmond, MA
Right now 2004 stretches before us all shiny and new. With it comes a renewed sense of optimism and endless possibilities. But, the truth is unless we make change happen we’ll be looking back at the same old story again next year.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Everything comes to those that wait.” Well I think Thomas Edison said it more accurately, “Everything comes to he who hustles while he waits.” The only way to get ahead is to keep moving forward.
Take these steps to make 2004 one of the most productive years of your life.
Forget New Year’s Resolutions – Studies show that developing goals, particularly written goals is the best way to achieve what you want. This year forget New Year’s resolutions, like “I need to drop a few pounds.” Instead set concrete goals, such as “I will lose twenty pounds by June 1st.” Ensure your success by developing a strategic plan to reach your objectives.
Build Your Network – Whatever you’re doing, it’s easier to “get by with a little help from your friends.” It can’t be said often enough: the surest way to succeed is by building and maintaining a strong network. These are the people who will be there when you need a new job or clients for your fledgling business. The key is to develop real connections not superficial links.
Evaluate Your Appearance – Is your appearance helping or hindering you? Does your image represent who you are? And who you want to be? Whatever your profession cultivating the right image is essential. Take a long look in your mirror. Maybe it’s time to try a new haircut or buy a new tie.
Say Goodbye to Comfort – As a rule, people are resistant to change. It’s easier to maintain the status quo, even if we’re not happy with it. However, stepping out of your comfort zone is the only way to grow in your personal or professional life. This year make it a practice to try something new on a regular basis. You might discover a skill you never knew you had.
Expand Your Horizon – Pick up a book. Take a class. Between adult education and online learning and the rows of business books at the store there’s no reason for anyone to stop growing. Take a break from watching TV. Make one of your goals to learn at least three new things this year.
© 2004 Annette Richmond All Rights Reserved
Annette Richmond, MA, is a nationally recognized professional development specialist who is dedicated to helping organizations and individuals become more successful. She is founder of career-intelligence.com, an online career resource, which offers cutting-edge, savvy career guidance, motivation, information and assessment tools to an international audience of over twenty thousand visitors each month. Offline, she offers seminars with a focus on communication, leadership, team building and goal setting. Sign up for a free monthly newsletter by visiting www.career-intelligence.com
Keywords: career, business, professional development, goals
About the Author
Annette Richmond, MA, Rowayton CT United States
arichmond@career-intelligence.com
http://www.career-intelligence.com
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