Today’s Work It Daily Challenge is to take some time for yourself. We live in a crazy, busy world, where your attention is always in demand. Between working, taking care of your family, helping out your friends, and so on, it can be difficult to justify taking a little time to breathe. Think about it: When was the last time you took a moment for yourself? Or, when you do take some time for yourself, do you feel guilty doing it because there are so many other important things you feel you SHOULD be doing instead? This constant demand can be draining, exhausting, and overwhelming. And, if you fail to take some time for yourself every so often, you’ll feel exhausted, burned out, and unhappy. So, stop putting it off! Today, take some time for yourself. A little “me” time never hurt anyone. In fact, you might not realize it, but having some "me" time is one of the most important things you can do for your career. It will help you clear your head, balance yourself, reflect on your thoughts, and remain stable. Whether you choose to go to yoga, take a hot bath, or just enjoy 15 minutes of silence each day, allow yourself to breathe. Force yourself to take a moment to reflect. And don't feel guilty about it! If you don't take care of yourself, you're not going to be as sharp or present as you need to be for your other obligations. Taking some time for yourself is important for your health, mind, and spirit. What do you do with your “me” time each day? What's your secret to making time for yourself? Tell us!
Everyone has heard of New Year's resolutions. You know, those promises we make to ourselves about things we'll do better in the year ahead. Sometimes these resolutions work, while other times we end up with gym memberships we never use! But have you ever heard of a career resolution? It's actually the same thing as a New Year's resolution, only career-focused.
However, with something as important as a career, you don't want to break these resolutions. That's why it's important to keep these goals manageable.
Here are four simple career resolutions that are easy to stick to and achieve.
Be Self-Aware Of Where You Stand In Your Career
BigstockBeing honest and self-aware of where you are in your career is the most important step in making strong career resolutions. If your career is going nowhere and you're unhappy, then it may be time to consider a career change, which will take you down a different path entirely.
But if you're happy and in good standing with your career, it's a lot easier to set goals for the year and build out a long-term career plan.
Find A Way To Grow Your Career
BigstockCareer growth is a very broad spectrum that means something different to everyone. It could be something as simple as improving on a weakness or building on a strength. It could also be learning a new skill or taking on additional responsibilities at work.
On a larger level, it could be seeking a promotion or moving into a leadership role.
Whatever the goal is, make sure it includes growing professionally. The worst thing you can do is stay the same! If you're not growing your career, you're dying—and becoming a lot less valuable to your employer. There are always ways to upskill!
Better Serve Your Professional Network
With current colleagues, former colleagues, and other professional acquaintances, you've probably built a solid professional network through the years. A strong professional network can come in handy if you lose your job or are looking to make a career change. However, you shouldn't just rely on your network when you're in need!
It's important to find ways to offer value to your network. This could include checking in with members of your network from time to time. Exchange messages on LinkedIn to see how they're doing or share relevant content of interest. If you can help someone in your network going through a career challenge, you should!
Maintaining a strong professional network is like an investment. If you want it to pay off, you have to put some time into it and be consistent.
Take Care Of Yourself
Bigstock
Working on your career is hard work! It's okay to be selfish sometimes. Whether you're working to grow your career or looking for a new job, it's important to find balance.
Your family and health always come first, so make sure your career goals don't interfere with that. If you want to set aside time during the week to work on your career that's fine, but don't miss important family events or milestones.
Don't let your career goals get in the way of your health goals. Go to the gym, take a walk, or go for a jog. Balance is key to maintaining healthy career and life goals. Sometimes you just need to adjust that balance as you go.
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.