5 Steps to Take Towards a Fresh Start

Giving yourself a fresh start can be challenging. Make sure you try these 5 steps to help you visualize your professional growth plans.

Small dreams are equally as important as the larger overarching ones.

What does a small accomplishment look like for you? Think about that before you charge into your loftier goals. Perhaps a large goal of yours is to become a “marketing manager,” what are the steps that you have to take in order to make this happen?

In this particular case, the small accomplishments could be researching different companies that have roles you are interested in or even writing your “dream gig” job description. We’re all guilty of excessively applying to random roles. It can be more effective to apply to fewer roles and spend more time on the application process tailoring your resume to best fit the role requirements or finding a contact at the company and trying to connect with them offline. In short, taking less but more specific steps can get you further along than big steps in a random direction. Whether you’re trying to get a new job or get in better shape, set realistic goals and break them down into actionable steps so you don’t burn out or get frustrated along the way.

Make a list of what you want.

Many people give up on their goals because they aren’t clear on their vision. Before you move in a direction, do you actually know what you want?

Whether you are 110% certain of your desires or are more indecisive, it always helps to write what you want down. For instance, you could write out a list of various preferences that you have professionally. It doesn’t have to be an abstract list of potential jobs you want. It can be broader. Example: “I’d like to work somewhere where my professional growth is a priority for my manager.” You can also think about the resources that might be beneficial to your year of growth. If you want to be more organized this month, maybe it’s time for you to sign up for a project management program. Regardless of what ends up on your list, you’ll have a clearer idea of what is actually important to you. You might be surprised by what you wrote down!

Visualize what you want as if you've already achieved your goals.

Ok, hear us out. This isn’t about faking it until you make it. It’s more about planning and mapping out your goals. Remember, a goal is just a dream with a plan. This is your time to thoroughly map out what your achievements should look like and what position they will put you in. Maybe this means that with a new job, you’ll be making more money. Try mapping out what a financial increase can look like for you. When you’re feeling discouraged or like you want to give up on your plans, take a look at that future plan. It might serve as an excellent motivator to “stick with it”!

What went well this past year?

When was the last time you gave yourself a pat on the back and recognized that you did something great? It’s probably been a while, which is why self reflection is so important. Although many obstacles may have come your way this year, you probably worked super hard and made some major breakthroughs. WRITE THEM DOWN. Make sure you’re balancing the constructive criticism you give yourself with that much deserved praise.This will give you more perspective on your progress.

What would you like to focus on this year?

Forward thinking is the theme for this year. Be specific with your focus. If you want to exercise a skill, be very granular with what you’ll focus on in order to become more adept in it:

• Do you want to work on your management skills? Maybe you need to start by managing people. Don’t have that opportunity yet? Talk to your boss about getting you on a management track or take a management course online.
• Do you want to become a stronger writer? Maybe you should take some writing courses to challenge yourself.
• Do you want to learn a new skill? Maybe you should do research on some affordable part time skill share courses.

In order to stay focused, consider coming up with a short mantra to guide you through the remainder of the year. Repeat it to yourself when you need to refocus in order to stay dedicated to your goals. Afterall, everyone’s process is different.