2010 is here and it's time to start thinking about implementing all of those career resolutions you made. And if you didn't make resolutions then now is the time to start recharging your career batteries. Many of you are in careers that don't challenge you or that don't take advantage of your unique gifts and talents. Many of you may have become disengaged employees who are "physically present" at the office but "productively absent".
It's not too late to have a happy ending! Take charge of your career satisfaction today. I've often said that if you are coachable, teachable, and humble then you will always find people who are willing to assist you. Reach out to your network of personal and professional peers and ask for advice on how you can improve your career satisfaction.
Career satisfaction can be found through connecting with people. Never forget that and never think that it is an individual journey. Our success is connected to the success of others. I'll share a few things you can do immediately to begin improving your career satisfaction.
1. Start writing your own blog about your hobbies or professional interest. There is no better way to stay motivated and engaged than when you write about things of interest to you. You will be amazed at how engaged you can become in your company/industry/job when you begin to connect to others who share your same interests.
2. Start helping your co-workers with their projects. Being available to your co-workers will allow you to exercise different skills and abilities that you may not use in your current job. In addition, it is a great way to bond with your co-workers and learn how their jobs impact your own as well as the overall goals of the organization. Working in silos can be lonely but working in teams can be quite energizing!
3. Start mentoring people who could benefit from your life experiences. Mentoring benefits you as much as it benefits the mentee. When you set an example for someone else you improve your professional skills and thus, your value to your organization. Think of someone who is experiencing some professional difficulty and reach out to them today.
These are just a few tips for recharging your career satisfaction in 2010. Continue to strive to be the best professional you can be and constantly seek ways to improve your value added. Surround yourself with positive people who you admire and you will find your attitude will change for the better. Adopt a "no excuses policy" and take responsibility for your career management. All of the tools you need to enjoy a high level of career satisfaction are available to you. You only need to be humble enough to ask for advice...
