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Do You Know What You Want? by speaker and author, Colette Carlson, MA The key to
career success is being aware of what you want. This includes the type of
position, company or individual(s) you choose to work with daily. When you have
clarity and vision, even if it’s just for the next 1-3 years, you can position
yourself for success. Without clarity, you won’t know which individuals to
bring in your network, which meetings, events or associations to attend for
best outcomes or even which projects or assignments to align with on the job.
By being clear on your professional goals, you will more readily attract what
you need. So many
individuals know this to be true, but hesitate claiming exactly what they want.
Oftentimes, people truly don’t know what they want because they haven’t stopped
long enough to figure it out, or they’re afraid to make the wrong decision.
Here’s my advice for both those situations: Stop saying,
“I don’t know,” and do your homework. Gather the information you need to move
forward. One of the keys to your long-term success is to know your strengths,
talents and abilities. You need to be clear on your assets so you understand what
you bring to the table and create situations that let you shine. Take the time
to make a list of your strengths. Ask yourself: “What comes easily to me that others
find difficult or challenging?” “What do others praise me for
accomplishing?” (Praise
can be telling as it gives you insight to some of your natural gifts) “If I could only perform 3 tasks from
my current position, what would they be and why?” These answers
will give you clues as to your natural desires and talents. Then start looking
for situations at your current position that allow you to express more of these
natural gifts. When you love what you do, others take notice and oftentimes
provide the exact opportunity you’re looking to create. Have you ever
heard that indecision is the decision to fail? Too many people get stuck out of
fear of making the wrong choice. Although it may seem scary to claim what you
want, simply by making a choice you’ve already set yourself apart from others. Give
yourself permission to make a decision based on what you feel right now. You
have absolutely no clue what the future might bring, so do your best to make
the best choice for you based on the information you have today. If it doesn’t
work out or you change your mind down the road, simply make another choice.
Choice is far more powerful than leaving it up to chance – and especially the
whims and desires of others. Until you are
clear on your career objectives, you will never be able to communicate your
goals or position yourself for success with individuals that can help make it
happen. So, again, what do you want? Articles may be reproduced with permission from Colette Carlson Communications. |
 
       
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