to Be ~

We each have the power to propel our careers to the highest of heights.  Whether it’s that corner office with the fantastic view or that senior executive position with all the perks, it’s your turn to shine and fulfill your professional and personal goals.  However, don’t be surprised or disappointed if you have to take a few detours along the way.  Those detours may very well be rewarding and beneficial to realizing your goals.  The following tips will help you keep your eye on the prize and put your plan into action:

Ø See the change you want to be:  There is only one thing constant in life and that is change.  Don’t be afraid to embrace your new destiny and believe firmly that you can accomplish your goals.  Harness the leader you are within and seize the power you have to change your life.  Remember, if you change the way you look at things, the things you look at will change.

Ø Know your strengths:  Change doesn’t always happen in leaps and bounds.  There are times when change happens incrementally.  Know your strengths and use them to move you closer to your goals -- one step at a time.  Remember, anything worth having takes effort, focus, and planning.  This is your life and you are worth it!

Ø Nurture your goals:  If you want to achieve your professional and personal goals in this life, not only will you need vision - you will need provision.  Powerful goals need more than just a little weekend gardening.  They need focus, dedication, and commitment.  Be the driver behind the wheel.  You can’t go forward while looking back in your rear view mirror.

Ø Continually sharpen your skills:  We all probably think we are good at what we do.  However, none of us are as good as we think we are, which is why it’s important to keep you skills current and in high demand.  One method for sharpening your skills is to set aside time for learning.  Regardless of the amount of time you spend on improving your skills - thirty minutes daily or an hour or two weekly - it’s important to your career development.  One way to maintain your competitive edge is by reading magazines, blogs, journals, books, or white papers on new advances or technology in your field.  Don’t be afraid to share what you learn with your colleagues or supervisor.

Ø Maintain a positive attitude:  Life can be filled with professional and personal setbacks, failures, and upset plans.  However, you have to learn to move on even when the odds are not in your favor – I did.  Don’t succumb to the pressures of disappointment and frustration.  Try to think ahead and remain optimistic.

Remember, in order to be the professional you really want to be, you must first prepare yourself for the unexpected, and be prepared to stretch yourself beyond where you believe you can go!