As we approach the new year, it’s time to think about what you want—and how you plan to achieve it. As you pursue your goals through adversity, uncertainty, and the unforeseen challenges ahead, aim high. Have a plan that builds in flexibility to realize your goals.
Setting goals in times of uncertainty can seem laughable. Nothing is ever attained if we don’t set challenging stretch goals. Get comfortable with uncertainty and entertain an ambitious agenda. Don’t be afraid to take risks.
Setting goals helps to visualize success, exponentially increasing your chance of reaching your goals.
One. Why do you want this?
Make the time to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses. Ask yourself . . .
- What are you great at?
- What areas need development?
- What are your skills and interests?
Two. What will you be doing three years from now?
How satisfied are you with what you are doing right now? Is your career on hold? Don’t become complacent. Are you growing? If not, it’s time to think about your next move.
Three. What are the most important skills you need to realize your goals?
How do you plan on developing those skills? Don’t let your skill set stagnate. Continually work on learning and acquiring necessary skills to advance your career. Focus on developing your soft skills such as emotional intelligence, communication, and leadership.
Four. Consider hiring a legal advisor to help jump start your career.
Investing in a career coach can help you define your values, objectives and goals. Legal advisors can also keep you focused and on plan.
Five. Put your plan down on paper.
Career goals need to be what’s most important to you. Ensure they are SMART goals – specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely.
Have both short and long term career goals. Revisit these often. Ensure they align with your values.
- Short-term goals: Short-term goals can take a few weeks, months or even years.
- Long-term goals: Long-term goals require planning, time and commitment.
Six. Set deadlines.
Deadlines don’t have to be rigid. If you don’t accomplish your goals on time, determine what’s holding you back and how you can progress. Flexibility is crucial.
Seven. Build your professional network.
We all know it’s not what you know, but who you know. Surrounding yourself with the right people can help advance your career and achieve our career goals.
Network online and in person. Leverage professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to network with colleagues and clients. Focus on connecting with people who can help you realize your goals. Nurture those relationships.
Arianna Huffington – “success is not a straight line, it’s much more of a dance and being open to possibilities.”
Final Thoughts –
Your goals should challenge you. Be ambitious. It’s rare that we ever regret doing something that we failed at. We regret the things we never had the courage to do. Go big or go home.
Source: Setting Career Goals When You Feel Overwhelmed, Harvard Business Review.
About On Balance Search
On Balance offers great insight and industry intelligence. Shari Davidson, president of On Balance Search Consultants, advises experienced attorneys at every stage of their career to take them to the next level. From making the lateral partner move to succession planning.
Shari takes a proactive approach to advising law firms on how to take a firm to the next level and helps rising talent make the transition to the right law firm. On Balance Search identifies opportunities that exist today, not down the road.
Contact us today. Call 516.731.3400 or visit our website at https://www.onbalancesearch.com
Please note that the content of this blog does not constitute legal advice and is only intended for the educational purpose of the reader. Please consult your legal counsel for specifics regarding your specific circumstances and the laws in your states pertaining to social media and any legal restrictions regarding the law.
