3 Rules to Keep Your Career Moving Forward

A summer vacation, no matter how brief is always a good to time
for a bit of reflection.  Although I change my daily pattern very
significantly when I’m up at the lake, a bit of rest always has me
reflecting on my career, what I’m doing, how I’m using my time, and what
might be more valuable long term.

One subject that always comes up after the first week is how do I
keep my career moving forward.  I seem to be able to think big picture
far more easily when I’m rested.  If you’re like me, here are three
suggestions.

  1. Expand your options.  A major source of career power is the ability
    to create further options for yourself.  In a tough business climate
    like this one, that can be daunting.  But in the worst of situations
    there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.  Look for it and don’t
    get caught up in the gloom and doom. 
  2. Make yourself useful.  There’s no reason whatsoever to be
    limited by your job definition.  That’s a death sentence.  When you see
    something needing doing, especially when it looks interesting, take it
    on.  And oh god, get over the “asking-permission” business.  Just do
    it.  If someone of importance doesn’t like it, you can always ask for
    forgiveness.  You’ll learn rather quickly, however, that it’s rare to
    have to ask for forgiveness.  Rewards come to the self-starters.
  3. Create some personal boundaries.  Even in this economy, you
    don’t have to accept every task that comes to you.  I’ve had clients
    wonder how they’re ever going to get their work done what with all the
    extra tasks that come their way as a result of cutbacks.  That’s usually
    a sign that they didn’t manage their likes and dislikes with the boss,
    didn’t get her to prioritize or have forgotten how to delegate.  When
    too many jobs come your way, as politely as possible, get creative and
    collaborative and get others to help explore how to finish the task
    without stretching yourself too thin.

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