Regain Your Focus
Discontent is the first step in the progress of a man or a nation. - Oscar Wilde
Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything. - George Bernard Shaw
We’re one month into the New Year. Is it what you had anticipated? Are you happy in your job? Do you see yourself continuing to learn and grow and make more money? If you didn’t answer yes to those three questions, than you need to reevaluate your career and determine what changes may be necessary.
If you’re unhappy or dissatisfied with your current position the worst thing to do is wait it out, to sit in your cubicle, think about how frustrated you are and complain about it. We’re not recommending you make a rash decision and quit your job tomorrow. But we are suggesting that now is the perfect time to assess and determine the course of your professional future.
Reflect
There are three methods to gaining wisdom. The first is reflection, which is the highest. The second is imitation, which is the easiest. The third is experience, which is the bitterest. - Confusius
You need to take the time and assess your current position. What about it do you enjoy? What about it do you wish were different? Are you in the right industry or do you need to reconsider occupations? In order for you to best prepare for an ideal future you need to consider all your options, not just those that are most convenient. Think about starting your own accounting practice or earning additional income as a tax preparer. Reflect on those things you enjoy and explore all the career possibilities that exist within that field. And if necessary, do a little research. Talk to professionals in your industry of choice and see what advice they offer. It’s important that you not let your current “rut” determine the course of your career because the longer you stay in a job you don’t enjoy the more difficult it is to extract yourself from that dreary cubicle.
Refocus
Focus on your potential instead of your limitations. - Alan Loy McGinnis
Once you determine whether or not you want to stay in your current position you can refocus your attention. What do you need to do to accomplish your career objectives? Do you need to focus your energy and attention on earning a promotion, finding a new job, getting additional training, or exploring financing options for that accounting practice you would like to start? After considerable reflection you should be able to determine where next to focus your professional efforts. Consider making a To-Do list indicating what you must do in order to achieve your career goals.
Act
Never by reflection, but only by doing is self-knowledge possible to one. - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
You can reflect and plan all you want, but nothing happens unless you act. It’s important that after you reflect and refocus you take the necessary steps to realize your goals. If necessary, make them small and simple. Pace isn’t as important as progress.
If you don’t take the time to evaluate your career, chances are you will keep plodding along at the same pace and in the same rut. You deserve to enjoy your life’s work, and now is the perfect time to reflect and assess your current position. Job satisfaction is a crucial element in your overall satisfaction of life. Take some time today to reflect, refocus and act!
