How to Get In Shape for Your Next Career Move

Career research suggests that as many as 8 out of 10 employed adults are in the wrong job or career! They are in poor career shape or have little or no career stamina. If you are one of the eight or your goal is to shape up, it's important to consider this career change advice for a healthy career workout, and to help you make the best decisions about your career on a daily basis. Use the steps in this article to take your career to the next level.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Positive mental attitude.
• 15-30 minutes every other day to focus on your career.
• Notebook to record career activities and achievements.

1. 
   Set goals

   Set career goals you know you can reach.  Keep your career goals realistic. Unrealistic goals leave many people feeling like a failure even after a career success.

2. 
   Segment Goals

   Divide your career goals into manageable pieces. Bite off only what you can chew at any given moment. If you overdo it and push yourself by trying to accomplish everything at once, you'll become discouraged and lose your motivation.

3. 
   Prioritize

   Work on your career goals one at a time. Prioritize your career goals and then work to achieve the first one. Continue to tackle each subsequent goal by completing it before starting the next one. Before you know it you will have accomplished all of your career objectives.

4. 
   Focus

   Increase your focus. To stay challenged and to progress towards your ultimate career goal, focus and prioritize your efforts.

5. 
   Be Creative

   Make modest changes to your work habits. There are a number of “baby steps” you can take to change your career. Instead of fantasizing about the perfect career, apply creative thinking and implement a few “quick wins” to maximize your career change.

6. 
   Celebrate

   Celebrate each success. Whenever you achieve a goal, do something nice for yourself. Make sure it’s more than just a pat on the back or verbal acknowledgement; make it worthwhile.

7. 
   Career Mentor

   Get a career fitness partner. Choose someone who will motivate and challenge you when you want to quit. Or, form a support group with other career professionals who share similar career interests.

Tips & Warnings

• Your career is more than just one or a series of jobs. A well-rounded career includes a balance of healthy personal relationships, work, and recreation (fun). To avoid boredom, make sure you include others who have a stake in your career and activities you truly enjoy.
• If you’re serious about advancing your career, hire a professional to help you get the most from your career activities and to motivate you to stick with your plans.
• Use the resources below to help you prepare for career advancement.
• As you begin to use these tips, they may at first feel burdensome. However, with a little effort and continued use, they'll become second nature.

Resources

• Take Your Career to a New Level
• Find Your Career Sweet Spot
• Career Management Specialists